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Összefoglaló. Bevezetés: Az új koronavírus (SARS-CoV-2) okozta pandémia számos változást eredményezett életünk minden területén, így a debreceni Szülészeti és Nőgyógyászati Klinikán is. Célkitűzések: A koronavírus-járvány többek között a terminus körüli elektív szülésindukciók gyakorlatának megváltoztatását igényelte. A bevezetett új szakmai eljárásrendeknek, járványügyi intézkedéseknek, a megyei kórházi funkciót ellátó debreceni Kenézy Kórház Szülészeti Osztálya és a Szülészeti Klinika összevonásának, illetve a megváltozott jogi környezetnek a szülészeti ellátásra kifejtett együttes hatásait elemezzük. Módszerek: Helyi protokollokat és részletes eljárásrendeket készítettünk és vezettünk be. 1. Szülésindukció. 2. Szülésindukció cervixérlelést igénylő esetekben. 3. A szülés módjának megválasztása előzményi császármetszés után. 4. A császármetszés utáni hüvelyi szülést támogató, terminus körüli gondozási protokoll. A protokollok bevezetését követő első 9 hónap szülészeti mutatóit (szülésszám, császármetszések aránya, perinatalis kimenetel, szülésindukciók aránya és sikeressége) vizsgáltuk és hasonlítottuk össze a megelőző időszak debreceni adataival, illetve az országos szülészeti mutatókkal. Eredmények: Klinikánkon a császármetszés aránya 2020-ban 33,5%-ra csökkent, a protokollok bevezetése óta pedig 30,7%, miközben a 2020. évi magyarországi arány 40,3%. Az összes szülés 20%-a volt 2020-ban szülésindukció, melyek közül 74% végződött hüvelyi szüléssel, míg ugyanez 2019-ben 11% indukcióból 47%-nak adódott. A havi szülésszám 2020. január és 2021. január között folyamatosan emelkedett (250-ről 450-re), a havi császármetszési arány pedig 41%-ról 25%-ra csökkent. Mindezen változások mellett 2019-ről 2020-ra csökkent mind a perinatalis mortalitás (6,3‰-ről 4,2‰-re), mind a szülés után a Neonatalis Intenzív Centrumba történő felvételek aránya (14,8%-ról 13,5%-ra). Következtetések: A bemutatott tényezők együttes hatásaként – elsődlegesen a megfelelő és következetesen betartott protokolloknak köszönhetően – a szülésindukciók aránya és sikeressége jelentősen növekedett, a császármetszések aránya szignifikánsan csökkent, javuló perinatalis morbiditási és mortalitási mutatók mellett. Orv Hetil. 2021; 162(21): 811–823. Summary. Introduction: The pandemic caused by the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has catalized several changes in many fields of our lives, and also at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the University of Debrecen, Hungary. Objectives: We wanted to analyse the compound effect of our new local protocols regarding elective labour inductions at term, the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting infection control measures, the merging of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Ward of the Kenézy County Hospital of Debrecen and the University Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and also the change of the legal environment. Methods: Local protocols were introduced: 1. Labour induction. 2. Cervical ripening in labour induction. 3. Choosing the route of delivery after cesarean. 4. Management of pregnancy around term in the case of planned trial of labour after cesarean. We compared the obstetrical data (number of deliveries, cesarean section rate, perinatal outcome and the rate and success rate of labour inductions) before and after the implementation of the protocols. The results were also compared to the Hungarian national database. Results: The annual cesarean rate at our department dropped to 33.5% in 2020. In the first 9-month period, after the introduction of the new reforms, the cesarean rate decreased to 30.7%, whereas the Hungarian national rate was 40.3% in 2020. At our department, 20% of all the deliveries were induced and 74% of them led to vaginal deliveries in 2020, while in 2019 only 11% of deliveries were labour inductions, and 47% of these cases were vaginal deliveries. The monthly number of deliveries was rising constantly between January 2020 (250 deliveries) and January 2021 (450 deliveries), and the monthly cesarean rate decreased from 41% to 25%. Comparing the data of 2019 and 2020, the annual perinatal mortality rate dropped from 6.3‰ in 2019 to 4.2‰ in 2020. Neonatal morbidity, as measured by admissions to the neonatal intensive care unit, also decreased (14.8% in 2019 and 13.5% in 2020). Conclusions: As a compound result of the described factors, but mainly due to the new protocols, both the rate and the success rate of labour inductions increased significantly, while the cesarean rate decreased with improving perinatal mortality and morbidity. Orv Hetil. 2021; 162(21): 811–823.

BACKGROUND: Customized clinical and administrative interventions in the form of a care pathway tool can improve VBAC outcomes and reduce the alarming rise in caesarean sections globally. OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of a locally tailored clinical pathway tool on VBAC outcomes in a private hospital in India. METHODS: A pre- and post-implementation study was conducted in a private hospital in India. All women with one previous caesarean section term pregnancy and cephalic presentation were included at baseline from January 2013 to December 2015 (Phase 1) and from January 2016 to December 2018 (Phase 2) after ongoing implementation of a clinical pathway tool by all providers. Background characteristics and clinical outcomes in both phases were reviewed retrospectively from case files. RESULTS: Overall 223 (13.42%) women among 1661 total births and 244 (11.62%) women among 2099 total births were included in Phase 1 and Phase 2, respectively. Total number of women who underwent trial of labour (TOLAC) increased from 36.77% to 64.34% (P

Background: The mode of delivery of a parturient is influenced by previous caesarean section (CS) scar. Objective: The objective of the study is to evaluate the pregnancy outcomes of a parturient with one previous caesarean delivery that was managed in Mile Four hospital, Abakaliki, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A 5-year retrospective study of women with one previous CS who delivered in Mile Four hospital between January 2011 and December 2015 was done. IBM SPSS version 20 was used for data analysis, and data were represented using frequency tables, charts, and Chi-square. The level of significance was set at an alpha level of 0.05. Results: Three hundred and twenty-two (322) women with one previous CS were selected for a trial of labor after A C/S (TOLAC). More than half of the women (53.1%) had successful TOLAC while 46.9% had a repeat CS. Of the 53.1% of women who had a successful TOLAC, One hundred and forty-one patients had spontaneous vertex delivery. Seventeen women (9.9%) on the TOLAC arm had a ruptured uterus, while seven patients (4.6%) failed the TOLAC group had uterine dehiscence. Haemorrhage was the most common maternal complication. Severe asphyxia and perinatal death were present in 5.9% and 5.3% of neonates on TOLAC arm, respectively. Conclusion: Trial of labour after a CS can result in an excellent outcome in a well-selected patient. The success rate of 53.1% in our study is encouraging. However, adequate intrapartum monitoring is recommended to reduce maternal and fetal complications.

Objective To create a new and simple model for predicting the likelihood of vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) section using variables available at the time of admission. Materials and methods A prospective observational study was performed at a tertiary care centre in Haryana over a period of 12 months (January 2018 - December 2018) in pregnant women attending the labour room with one previous cesarean section fulfilling the criteria for undergoing trial of labour after cesarean (TOLAC). The sample size was 150. A VBAC score was calculated for each patient using a new prediction model that included variables available at the time of admission such as maternal age, gestational age, Bishop's score, body mass index, indication for primary cesarean section, and clinically estimated fetal weight. The results of the VBAC scores were correlated with outcomes i.e. successful VBAC or failed VBAC. The chi-square test and Student's t-test was used for comparison among the groups. Descriptive and regression analysis was performed for the study variables. Results Out of 150 TOLAC cases, 78% had successful VBAC and the remainder (22%) had failed VBAC. The observed probability of having a successful VBAC for a VBAC score of 0-3 was 34%, 4-6 was 68%, 7-9 was 90%, and ≥10 was 97%. The prediction model performed well with an area under the curve of 0.77 (95% CI: 0.68 to 0.85) of the receiver operating characteristics receiver operating characteristic curve. Conclusion The present study shows that the proposed VBAC prediction model is a good tool to predict the outcome of TOLAC and can be used to counsel women regarding the mode of delivery in the current and subsequent pregnancies. Further studies of this model and other such models with different permutations and combinations of variables are required.

Introduction: The prevalence of cesarean deliveries is high in many parts of world. Vaginal birth after cesarean section (VBAC) is a trial of vaginal delivery in selected cases of a previous CS in a well equipped hospital. It offers distinct advantages over a repeat caesarean section, since the operative risks are completely eliminated, the hospital stay is much shorter and expenses involved are much less. Objectives: To study the maternal and perinatal outcomes among women with previous Cesarean section at a tertiary care centre. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was carried out over a period of 12 months. 979 pregnant women with previous caesarean section were recruited in study. A detailed history was taken and mode of delivery decided as per the standard protocol. 636 patients underwent elective repeat LCSC.343 patients were given trial of labour out of which 226 delivered vaginally. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were noted Result: The rate of successful VBAC was 65.89%. Most common indications of repeat caesarean section were fetal distress and failure to progress. Post op maternal and neonatal complications were significantly more in repeat caesarean section group. Incidence of infectious morbidity was also higher in repeat cesarean group than VBAC group. Conclusion: Fetal morbidity and mortality due to trial of labor is comparable with the women laboring without a scar, trial of labour may be encouraged. women given trial of labour with careful monitoring and taken for emergency LSCS on minimal indication is the best answer to management of previous one or two CS. Keywords: VBAC, TOLAC, Emergency cesarean section, Perinatal morbidity.

Background In line with global trends, India has witnessed a sharp rise in caesarean section (CS) deliveries, especially in the private sector. Despite the urgent need for change, there are few published examples of private hospitals that have successfully lowered their CS rates. Our hospital, serving private patients too, had a CS rate of 79% in 2001. Care was provided by fee-for-service visiting consultant obstetricians without uniform clinical protocols and little clinical governance. Consultants attributed high CS rate to case-mix and maternal demand and showed little inclination for change. We attempted to reduce this rate with the objective of improving the quality of our care and demonstrating that CS could be safely lowered in the private urban Indian healthcare setting. Methods We hired full-time salaried consultants and began regular audit of CS cases. When this proved inadequate, we joined an improvement collaborative in 2011 and dedicated resources for quality improvement. We adopted practice guidelines, monitored outcomes by consultant, improved labour ward support, strengthened antenatal preparation, and moved to group practice among consultants. Results Guidelines ensured admissions in active labour and reduced CS (2011 to 2016) for foetal heart rate abnormalities (23 to 5%; p p p p p Conclusions It is feasible to substantially reduce CS rate in private healthcare setting of a middle-income country like India. Ideas such as moving to full-time attachment of consultants, joining a collaborative, improving labour ward support, providing resources for data collection, and perseverance could be adopted by other hospitals in their own journey of moving towards a medically justifiable CS rate.

Background During the last decades, the rate of caesarean section is increasing and this can increase the mortality and morbidity. Up to one third of the caesarean sections are attributed to the elective repeat caesarean section (ERCS). This study aims to evaluate attitudes and factors affecting the choice of pregnant women with one previous caesarean section regarding their mode of delivery in their second pregnancy. By assessing these attitudes, this study can help the efforts in developing strategies to increase the rates of vaginal delivery. Material and methods A cross-sectional design was conducted by a structured questionnaire on 166 pregnant women who had delivered once by caesarean section for their first pregnancy and were in the third trimester of their second pregnancy. Any women with an absolute indication for caesarean section was excluded. The study comprises women who attend the clinic at our center in Northern of Jordan. Proper statistical tests were performed to assess the association between the choice of delivery and selected demographic and clinical factors. Results About 55.4% responded that they would choose ERCS (n = 92) and the remaining participants chose trial of labour after caesarean section (TOLAC) (n = 74). Fear of pain was the most common reason for choosing caesarean section, accounting for 55.4%. Interestingly, our study did not show a significant association between the mode of delivery and demographic factors, such as age, educational level and occupation. The single independent significant factor influencing patients’ choice that our study revealed was “being informed about the complications of TOLAC”. The choice of TOLAC was almost four times higher for those participants who had been informed about the complications, compared to those who had not been informed. Conclusion Proper counselling is a main factor that affected the patients’ choice toward the mode of delivery. Proper pain management may encourage patients to choose TOLAC because fear of pain was a main reason that patients requested ERCS instead of TOLAC., Highlights • Pregnants with a previous caesarean section has the right to choose TOLAC or ERCS. • Pregnants should be aware about the risks and benefits for each mode of delivery. • Proper counselling pain management are the main factors affect their choice. • Knowledgeable pregnant women tend to choose TOLAC over ERCS.

Vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) is an option to avoid major abdominal surgery and many consequences related to repeated caesarean delivery. In the last years, many efforts have been made to increase the number of patients attempting trial of labour after caesarean (TOLAC). The aim of our study was to identify the most important factors associated with the success of VBAC. A retrospective study was conducted in two Italian referral centres. Subjects included were singleton and morphologically normal pregnancy with previous C-section. Subjects with an inter-pregnancy interval shorter than 18 months, a large for gestational age baby, a pregnancy complicated with gestational diabetes and a previous unclassified uterine scar were excluded. The characteristics of the subjects were compared and a logistic regression was performed to evaluate variables associated with successful VBAC. Of the 300 patients included, 224 (74.7%) achieved VBAC while 76 (25.3%) underwent C-section after failed TOLAC. The number of previous C-sections was not significantly associated with the success of TOLAC. Factors positively associated with achievement of VBAC were previous vaginal delivery (OR of 6.88 for one and 9.68 for more than one) and oxytocin implementation (OR 3.32). No maternal and neonatal adverse events occurred. Our results show that attempting VBAC is a feasible option in referral centres after adequate evaluation of the potential factors affecting the probability of success. A careful record of obstetrical history and management of labour can provide clinicians useful information to counsel women before and during labour.

Objective To investigate whether the use of intrauterine tocodynamometry versus external tocodynamometry (IT versus ET) during labour reduces operative deliveries and improves newborn outcome. As IT provides more accurate information on labour contractions, the hypothesis was that it may more appropriately guide oxytocin use than ET. Design Randomised controlled trial. Setting Two labour wards, in a university tertiary hospital and a central hospital. Population A total of 1504 parturients with singleton pregnancies, gestational age ≥37 weeks and fetus in cephalic position: 269 women with uterine scars, 889 nulliparas and 346 parous women with oxytocin augmentation. Methods Participants underwent IT (n = 736) or ET (n = 768) during the active first stage of labour. Main outcome measures Primary outcome: rate of operative deliveries. Secondary outcomes duration of labour, amount of oxytocin given, adverse neonatal outcomes. Results Operative delivery rates were 26.9% (IT) and 25.9% (ET) (odds ratio 1.05, 95% CI 0.84-1.32, P = 0.663). The ET to IT conversion rate was 31%. We found no differences in secondary outcomes (IT versus ET). IT reduced oxytocin use during labours with signs of fetal distress, and trial of labour after caesarean section. Conclusions IT did not reduce the rate of operative deliveries, use of oxytocin, or adverse neonatal outcomes, and it did not shorten labour duration. Tweetable abstract IT (versus ET) reduced oxytocin use in high-risk labours but did not influence operative delivery rate or adverse neonatal outcomes.

Aims and objectives This research was conducted to explore the effectiveness of employing the healthcare failure mode and effect analysis method in the management of trial of labour after caesarean, with the aims of increasing vaginal birth after caesarean section rate and reducing potential risks that might cause severe complications. Background Previously high caesarean section rate in China and the "two children" policy leads to the situation where multiparas are faced with the choice of another caesarean or trial of labour after caesarean. Despite evidences showing the benefits of vaginal birth after caesarean, obstetricians and midwives in China tend to be conservative due to limited experience and insufficient clinical routines. Thus, its management needs further optimisation in order to make the practice safe and sound. Design A prospective quality improvement programme using the healthcare failure mode and effect analysis. Methods With the structured methodology of healthcare failure mode and effect analysis, we determined core processes of antepartum and intrapartum management, conducted risk priority numbers and devised remedial protocols for failure modes with high risks. The programme was then implemented as a clinical routine under the agreement of the institutional review board and vaginal birth after caesarean success rates were compared before and after the quality improvement programme, both descriptively and statistically. Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence 2.0 checklist was chosen on reporting the study process. Results Seventy failure modes in seven core processes were identified in the management process, with 14 redressed for actions. The 1-year follow-up trial of labour after caesarean and vaginal birth after caesarean rate was increased compared with the previous 3 years, with a vaginal birth after caesarean rate of 86.36%, whereas the incidence of uterine rupture was not compromised. Conclusions The application of healthcare failure mode and effect analysis can not only promote trial of labour after caesarean and vaginal birth after caesarean rate, but also maintaining a low risk of uterine rupture. Relevance to clinical practice This modified vaginal birth after caesarean management protocol has been shown effective in increasing its successful rate, which can be continued for further comparison of severe complications to the previous practice.

Background The advanced maternal age rate increases in developed countries. Older women have more pre-existing condition than youngest women and develop more frequently obstetrical pathologies responsible for a higher rate of caesarean delivery before labour and labour induction. For aged nulliparous without pathology who experience spontaneous labour, there is few data on the mode of delivery and on physiological labour according to maternal age. Objective To compare the intrapartum caesarean delivery rate according to maternal age, for nulliparous with planned vaginal delivery and spontaneous labour at term. Methods Retrospective cohort in a single academic institution between January 2000 and June 2017. All nulliparous women with planned vaginal delivery with live singleton in cephalic presentation at and after 37 weeks of gestation with spontaneous labour were included (n = 10,611). Two groups were compared: nulliparous women aged 20–34 and nulliparous women aged 35 and over. The main outcome was the intrapartum caesarean delivery rate. A subgroup analysis was performed for nulliparous with more advanced maternal age defined as women over 40. Results Among the 10,611 women included in this analysis, 8,993 (84.8%) were aged 20–34 and 1,618 (15.2%) were aged over 35. From the latter 367 (22.7%) were over 40 years old. The intrapartum caesarean delivery rate was similar between women aged between 20 and 34 and women aged over 35 (10.8% compared to 8.8%; cOR 0.91, 95% CI 0.76–1.08; aOR 0.91, 95% CI 0.76–1.09). The indications of caesarean were similar in both groups. No differences were found between both groups for mean labour duration (430.9 min for the [20–34] years group compared to 428.0 min for the over 35 years group, p = 0.654). The subgroup analysis performed on nulliparous with more advanced maternal age yielded similar results. Conclusion For nulliparous at term in spontaneous labour, an advanced maternal age was not associated with an increased intrapartum caesarean delivery rate.

This study was designed to evaluate maternal and obstetrical factors associated with a successful trial of labour after one caesarean section (TOLAC) as well as evaluating the associated fetal and maternal outcomes and to determine the rate of vaginal delivery and repeated C/S. A prospective cross-sectional study was done on 237 women with previous one C/S then patients were selected for the trial of labour based on the department protocol. Those who were chosen for TOL were strictly monitored & observed for the progress of labour and the outcomes were recorded in terms of mode of delivery, maternal & fetal complications and were analysed and compared with those who had repeated C/S. Seventy-three (30.8%) patient was delivered by elective C/S without trial, 109 (46%) of the patients who were admitted to labour room delivered vaginally while 55 (23.2%) delivered by emergency C/S. It has been found that maternal BMI of (

Development of anuria in the setting of post-caesarean section is a cause of concern for surgeons, and it requires rapid evaluation for detecting its possible etiology and the initiation of appropriate treatment. When the cause of anuria is not immediately apparent in a hemodynamically stable patient, one must rule out other possible differentials as part of the diagnostic process. In this report, we present a rare case of a patient undergoing a trial of labour after a caesarean section, who had a Foley catheter accidentally placed and inflated in the right ureter, instead of the bladder. This led to apparent anuria, which was not identified until the patient's caesarean section had been completed. We also seek to shed light on a method for safely removing a ureteral Foley with a blocked inflation channel.

Objective: to compare the vaginal birth rate in women with previous one lower segment caesarean section when induced at 40 weeks compared to expectant management till 41 weeks. Design: A randomized controlled trial Setting: Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, JIPMER, a tertiary care teaching institution in the south of India. Population or Sample: Low-risk women with previous one single lower segment caesarean section with a singleton foetus in vertex presentation and eligible for a trial of labour (TOLAC) at 40 weeks gestation. Methods: Block randomization to two groups of thirty each. The induction group was induced at 40 weeks with low dose oxytocin infusion or ripening with a single application of a single balloon Foley catheter followed by oxytocin infusion 24 hours later. The expectant group was managed in the hospital with maternal and foetal surveillance and induced at 41 weeks if they had not delivered by then. Main Outcome Measures: Vaginal birth after caesarean section (VBAC). Results: The demography and pregnancy variables were comparable in the two groups. Twenty out of thirty women (66.67%) had a successful vaginal birth after caesarean section in the induction group compared to ten out of 30 (33.33%) in the expectant group. This difference was significant (RR 2.0, 95% CI: 1.13-3.52; P=0.016) Conclusions: Among low-risk women with previous one lower segment caesarean section willing and eligible for TOLAC, the successful VBAC rate is significantly higher among those induced at 40 weeks compared to those managed expectantly till 41 weeks.

ObjectiveThe rates of caesarean section (CS) in Ethiopian private hospitals are high compared with those in public facilities, and there are limited descriptions of groups of women contributing to these high rates. The objective of this study was to describe the groups contributing to increased CS rates using the Robson classification in two major private hospitals in eastern Ethiopia.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingTwo major private hospitals in eastern Ethiopia.ParticipantsAll women who gave birth from 9 January 2019 to 8 January 2020 in two major private hospitals in eastern Ethiopia.Primary and secondary outcome measuresThe primary outcome was the Robson 10 Group Classification System. The secondary outcome was indication for CS as recorded in the medical files.ResultsOf 1203 births in both hospitals combined during the study period, 415 (34.5%) were by CS. Women with a uterine scar due to previous CS (group 5), single cephalic term multiparous women in spontaneous labour (group 3) and single cephalic term nulliparous women in spontaneous labour (group 1) were the leading groups contributing 33%, 27.5% and 17.1%, respectively. The leading documented indications were fetal compromise (29.4%), previous CS (27.2%) and obstructed labour (12.3%).ConclusionMore than three-fourths of CS were performed among Robson groups 5, 3 and 1, indicating inadequate trial of labour after CS or management of labour among relatively low-risk groups (3 and 1). Improving management of spontaneous labour and strengthening clinical practice around safely providing the option of vaginal birth after CS practice are strategies required to reduce the high CS rates in these private facilities.

Background The worldwide incidence of birth by Caesarean Section (CS) is rising. Many births after a previous CS are by repeat surgery, either by an elective CS or after a failed trial of labour. Adhesion formation is associated with increased maternal morbidity in patients with repeat CSs. In spite of large-scale studies the relation between the incidence of adhesion formation and CS surgical technique is unclear. This study aims to assess maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality after repeat CSs in a rural hospital in a low-income country (LIC) and to analyse the effect of surgical technique on the formation of adhesions. Methods A cross-sectional, retrospective medical records study of all women undergoing CS in Ndala Hospital in 2011 and 2012. Results Of the 3966 births, 450 were by CS (11.3%), of which 321 were 1st CS, 80 2nd CS, 36 3rd CS, 12 4th and one 5th CS (71, 18, 8, 3 and 0.2% respectively). Adhesions were considered to be severe in 56% of second CSs and 64% of third CSs. In 2nd CSs, adhesions were not associated with closure of the peritoneum at 1st CS, but were associated with the prior use of a midline skin incision. There was no increase in maternal morbidity when severe adhesions were present. Adverse neonatal outcome was more prevalent when severe adhesions were present, but this was statistically non-significant (16% vs 6%). Conclusions Our results give insight into the practice of repeat CS in our rural hospital. Adhesions after CSs are common and occur more frequently after midline skin incision at 1st CS compared to a transverse incision. Reviewing local data is important to evaluate quality of care and to compare local outcomes to the literature.

Background Repeat caesarean sections (CSs) are major contributors to the high rate of CS in Canada and globally. Women’s decisions to have a planned repeat CS (PRCS) or a trial of labour after CS (TOLAC) are influenced by their maternity care providers. This study explored factors maternity care providers consider when counselling pregnant women with a previous CS, eligible for a TOLAC, about delivery method. Methods A qualitative descriptive design was implemented. Semi-structured, one-to-one in-depth telephone interviews were conducted with 39 maternity care providers in Ontario, Canada. Participants were recruited at 2 maternity care conferences and with the use of snowball sampling. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were uploaded into the data management software, NVIVO 10.0 and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results Participants consisted of 12 obstetricians, 13 family physicians and 14 midwives. Emergent themes, reflecting the factors maternity care providers considered when counselling on mode of delivery, were organized under the categories clinical/patient factors, health system factors and provider preferences. Maternity care providers considered clinical/patient factors, including women’s choice … with conditions, their assessment of women’s chances of a successful TOLAC, their perception of women’s risk tolerance, women’s preferred delivery method, and their perception of women’s beliefs and attitudes about childbirth. Additionally, providers considered health system factors which included colleague support for TOLAC and time needed to mount an emergency CS. Finally, provider factors emerged as considerations when counselling. They included provider preference for PRCS or TOLAC, provider scope of practice, financial incentives and convenience related to PRCS, past experiences with TOLAC and PRCS and providers’ perspectives on risk of TOLAC. Conclusion The findings highlight the multiplicity of factors maternity care providers consider when counselling women. Effectively addressing clinical, health care system and personal factors that influence counselling may help decrease non-medically indicated PRCS.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the risk factors for caesarean sections in the second stage of labour after a previous caesarean section among women who underwent trial of labour (TOL). Material and methods: From a total of 639 women who experienced one caesarean section, 456 women were qualified for TOL. From this group, 105 women were subjected to a caesarean section in the first stage of labour and another 351 women reached the second stage of labour. From the latter group, 309 women delivered naturally and 42 were subjected to a caesarean section. Results: Risk factors for the necessity of performing a caesarean section in the second stage of labour after a previous caesarean section was the weight gain during pregnancy (OR = 1.07), the height of fundus uteri (OR = 1.25) before delivery, and the estimated foetal weight (OR = 1.01), a past delivery of a child with a birth weight exceeding 4.000 g (OR = 2.14), the presence of pre-gestational diabetes (OR = 15.4) and gestational diabetes (OR = 2.22), necessity of applying a delivery induction (OR = 2.52), stimulation of uterine activity during delivery (OR = 2.43) and application of epidural analgesia (OR = 4.04). A factor reducing the risk of a caesarean section in the second stage was a vaginal delivery in a woman’s history (OR = 0.21). Conclusions: Women should be encouraged to deliver naturally after a previous caesarean section, especially when their history includes a vaginal delivery and if there is no need for labour induction.

BACKGROUND: Caesarean rates are rising worldwide, the main contributor being the elective repeat caesarean. During the past decades, rates of vaginal birth after caesarean dropped considerably. This requires insight in women's preferences regarding giving birth following a previous caesarean.AIM: To gain a better understanding of women's values and preferences regarding the upcoming birth following a previous caesarean. Using Q methodology, this study systematically explores and categorises their preferences.METHODS: Q methodology is an innovative research approach to explore and compare a variety of viewpoints on a certain subject. Thirty-one statements on birth after caesarean were developed based on the health belief model. Thirty-six purposively sampled pregnant women with a history of caesarean ranked these statements from least to most important. By-person factor analysis was used to identify patterns which, supplemented with interview data, were interpreted as preferences.FINDINGS: Three distinct preferences for giving birth after a caesarean were found; (a) "Minimise the risks for me and my child", giving priority to professional advice and risk of adverse events, (b) "Seek the benefits of normal birth", desiring to give birth as normal as possible for both emotional and practical reasons, (c) "Opt for repeat caesarean", expressing the belief that a planned caesarean brings comfort.CONCLUSIONS: Preferences for birth after caesarean vary considerably among pregnant women. The findings help to understand the different types of information valued by women who need to decide on their mode of birth after a first caesarean.

Background: Trial of labour is a clinical test to assess the adequacy of pelvis andability of fetus and mother to withstand labour. If progressive changes in dilation and station donot occur, a cesarean delivery is performed. Objective: Feto-maternal outcome after trial oflabour in women with gestational age b/w 37 to 42 weeks. Study Design: Cross sectional study.Setting: Department of Obs/ Gyn unit-I Liaquat University Hospital Hyderabad. Duration ofStudy: One year from 01-02-2009 to 31-01-2010. Subjects and Methods: 100 pregnant women,with gestational age between 37-42 weeks, who underwent trial of labour at labour ward,Obs/Gyn Unit-1 Liaquat University Hospital, after fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included inthe study. Detailed history and examination including abdominal and pelvic examination as wellas Ultrasound for fetal well being was performed. Fetal monitoring was done by auscultation andCTG. Partogram was maintained to observe the progress of labour. Those who progressed withtrial either delivered normally or with the help of instruments and those who did not progress weredelivered by C-section. After delivery, mothers were watched for any postpartum complicationand condition of neonates was assessed by APGAR score. Results: Out of 100 women includedin this study 58% delivered vaginally, 31 % delivered by cesarean section and 11 % hadinstrumental deliveries. Labour was induced in 34%, augmented in 34% and 32% hadspontaneous labour. 77.0% babies had apgar score > 5(7.1±0.72), 16% < 5(3.68±2.18) and 6%were still birth. 81% mothers had no complication during or after delivery, whereas 19 developedcomplications and these were 12 Genital tract traumas, 5 postpartum haemorrhage, one uterinerupture and one retained placenta. There was no statistically significant difference (P=0.42)when mode of delivery was compared with the trial of labour. However augmentation of labourwas associated with increased rate of maternal complications when maternal outcome wascompared with the type of labour (P=0.03). Conclusions: Trial of labour in carefully selectedwomen with high probability to deliver their babies vaginally decreases the rate of LSCS, therebyreducing the maternal morbidity and mortality associated with it. However augmentation oflabour is associated with increased rate of maternal complications as compared to spontaneousor induced labour.

Background: The alarming increase in caesarean section rates worldwide has led to a shift of focus to caesarean section rates and indications for caesarean section. The main objective of the study was to analyse the indications for caesarean section with the aim of finding viable interventions which could help decrease the caesarean rates. Methods: A retrospective study from 1st January 2017 to 31st December 2017 was conducted in which we analysed patient records of those delivering in unit III of our institute. Analysis of patient records was done and indication for caesarean was analysed. Results: A total of 496 women delivered in our unit in 2017, of these, 303 (61.09%) had a vaginal delivery and 193 (38.91%) had caesarean section. 108 patients (21.77%) had a history of at least one previous caesarean section and of these 94 (87.03%) underwent a repeat caesarean section. The primary caesarean section rate was 25.51%. Section was done for breech presentation in eleven primigravidae (5.7% of sections) and in fifteen multigravidae (7.77% of sections) including those with a previous section. Four patients had multiple pregnancy (2.04% of all sections). Eleven patients had a preterm section (5.7% of sections). Conclusion: In order to decrease caesarean rates the group that requires most focus is those in whom a primary section is being done. Few patients who have undergone at least one prior surgery are willing to take the risk inherent to a trial of labour (TOLAC). Classification and reporting of caesarean section according to the Robson ten point criteria will help in a better understanding of the indication, comparison and auditing and help to establish guidelines that can help decrease the caesarean rates.

Background Following a primary caesarean section (CS), women must decide between attempted vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) and elective repeat caesarean section (ERCS) in subsequent pregnancies. Both options carry potential morbidity and mortality for mother and child, with the most feared being uterine rupture and its consequences. In attempts to reduce morbidity, several predictive nomograms have been developed to assist in delivery mode decisions. Aim To assess the validity of the predictive nomogram developed by Grobman et al. in our regional Australian population. Materials and methods In our retrospective analysis, patients at term, with one previous CS who had a trial of labour were assigned a 'Grobman score' based on antenatal details. Outcomes were noted and patient groups analysed according to percentage deciles of estimated VBAC success, compared with actual VBAC success rates. Results A total of 395 women underwent trial of labour after a single prior CS, with a VBAC success rate of 83%. The Grobman model displayed adequate calibration and the re-calibrated model good calibration with the slope coefficient of 0.87 (95% CI 0.54-1.19) and intercept 0.19 (95% CI -0.34-0.72). Discrimination was moderate with receiver operating characteristic area of 0.71 (95% CI 0.67-0.76). Conclusion This analysis supports further validation studies in larger Australian settings, and suggests that use of the original Grobman predictive nomogram may be appropriate in Australia.

In this issue, Hautakangas et al report that "we found significantly lower intrauterine pressure (IUP) in failed Trial Of Labour After Caesarean (TOLAC), compared with Vaginal Birth After Caesarean", although "the dosages of oxytocin tended to be higher among failed TOLACs". They commented that "it seems that raising the oxytocin dosage does not necessarily improve uterine contractile activity in this group". Why is this?

Background: Trial of labour after Caesarean section (TOLAC) refers to an attempt at vaginal delivery after a previous caesarean section. Outcome is influenced by a number of factors which are important in patient’s selection. Objectives: The aim of this study was to find out the incidence and feto-maternal outcome of the practice of Trial of labour after Caesarean section. Methodology: This is a retrospective study of cases of vaginal birth after Caesarean section Data were retrieved from the case notes of patients who attempted vaginal birth after Caesarean section from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2017, a period of five years. Result: There were 10,669 deliveries, 3179 of which were through Caesarean section. This gave a Caesarean section rate of 29.8%. A total of 217 patients attempted vaginal birth after Caesarean section and 83 ended up as repeat Caesarean section (38.2%) while 138 (61.8%) had successful vaginal birth after Caesarean section. Patients with previous vaginal delivery, age range 25 - 29 years and interdelivery interval of greater than or equal to 2 years were more successful at achieving vaginal birth after Caesarean section. The leading indications for the repeat Caesarean section include cephalopelvic disproportion (45.8%), poor progress of labour (19.3%) and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (8.4%). Conclusion: Vaginal birth after Caesarean section was successful in most of the parturients that attempted it in this study especially in patients within the age range of 25 - 29 years, those that have had previous vaginal delivery and with interdelivery interval of greater than or equal to 2 years.

The proportion of women who attempt vaginal birth after prior cesarean delivery has decreased mainly because of the concern about safety. The purpose of this study is to observe maternal & neonatal outcomes in women delivered either by vaginal birth after caesarean section, elective repeat caesarean section or failed trial of labour. To design a definite protocol for selection of patient to achieve successful vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) section. A prospective observational study was set at Sulaimani Maternity Teaching Hospital/ Kurdistan region of Iraq, from first July 2013 to first July 2014. In which 200 pregnant women (with one prior caesarean section & singleton, term, cephalic presentation) were enrolled, followed up during labour & puerperium for maternal & neonatal complications. Data analysis was performed using the statistical software namely (SPSS version 20). Planned vaginal birth was successful in 63.4% of pregnant women, with the least maternal and neonatal complication, apart from 3rd degree perineal tear (2.3%) which was statistically significant (probability value < 0.001). In conclusion, the women who had successful vaginal birth after caesarean, had better result for the mother and neonate than failed trial of labour and those who had elective repeat caesarean section. Women with body mass index of < 30kg/m2, age 18months, non-recurrent cause of previous scar and estimated fetal weight of < 4kg, had more successful VBAC rate.

Objective: We aimed to predict the perinatal outcomes and costs of health services following labour induction for late-term pregnancies. Materials and methods: We conducted a cohort study of 245 women who underwent labour induction during their 41st week of gestation. The cervical condition was assessed upon admission using the Bishop score and ultrasound cervical length measurements. We estimated the direct costs of labour induction, and a predictive model for perinatal outcomes was constructed using the decision tree analysis algorithm and a logit model. Results: A very unfavourable Bishop score at admission (Bishop score

BACKGROUND Currently, little evidence exists to guide mode of delivery in pregnant women with super obesity. There is a trend toward elective caesarean delivery in this population with little evidence of improved maternal or neonatal outcomes. AIM Our study compares maternal and neonatal outcomes based on planned mode of delivery and aimed to identify predictors for a successful vaginal delivery. MATERIALS AND METHODS This retrospective observational study explored maternal and neonatal outcomes of women with a body mass index ≥50 who birthed following a singleton pregnancy at ≥36 weeks gestation over a 10 year period at a single centre in Melbourne, Australia. Outcomes between women having a planned vaginal or planned caesarean birth were compared on an intention-to-treat basis, with logistic regression used to determine factors predictive of a vaginal birth. RESULTS A total of 275 women with super obesity were identified. One hundred and ninety-nine (72%) planned a vaginal birth, which was successful for 70%. Planned vaginal birth was associated with lower rates of postpartum complications requiring readmission (5% vs 16%; P = 0.003). Neonatal resuscitation requirements and Apgar scores at five minutes were similar between groups. Multiparity was the strongest predictor of a successful vaginal birth while medical intervention in labour was associated with a reduced rate of success in primiparous women. CONCLUSIONS Contrary to current trends in practice, a trial of labour for women with super obesity, when facilities and skills permit, appears a safe option for mother and baby.

IntroductionLabour induction in women with a previous caesarean delivery currently uses vaginal prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), which carries the risks of uterine hyperstimulation and scar rupture. We aim to compare the efficacy of mechanical labour induction using a transcervically applied Foley catheter balloon (FCB) with PGE2 in affected women attempting trial of labour after caesarean (TOLAC).Methods and analysisThis single-centre non-inferiority prospective, randomised, open, blinded-endpoint study conducted at an academic maternity unit in Singapore will recruit a total of 100 women with one previous uncomplicated caesarean section and no contraindications to vaginal delivery. Eligible consented participants with term singleton pregnancies and unfavourable cervical scores (≤5) requiring labour induction undergo stratified randomisation based on parity and are assigned either FCB (n=50) or PGE2 (n=50). Treatments are applied for up to 12 hours with serial monitoring of the mother and the fetus and serial assessment for improved cervical scores. If the cervix is still unfavourable, participants are allowed a further 12 hours’ observation for cervical ripening. Active labour is initiated by amniotomy at cervical scores of ≥6. The primary outcome is the rate of change in the cervical score, and secondary outcomes include active labour within 24 hours of induction, vaginal delivery, time-to-delivery interval and uterine hyperstimulation. All analyses will be intention-to-treat. The data generated in this trial may guide a change in practice towards mechanical labour induction if this proves efficient and safer for women attempting TOLAC compared with PGE2, to improve labour management in this high-risk population.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval is granted by the Domain Specific Review Board (Domain D) of the National Healthcare Group, Singapore. All adverse events will be reported within 24 hours of notification for assessment of causality. Data will be published and will be available for future meta-analyses.Trial registration numberNCT03471858; Pre-results.

Introduction Rising rates of caesarean section (CS) is an issue of particular concern. Recently, there has been research supporting Vaginal Births After Caesarean (VBAC), which is controversial. In Greece, over half of births in the country are by CS, placing Greece among countries with the highest CS rates. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and the factors associated with VBACs and to compare the maternal/neonatal outcomes with a 'non-caesarean' control group. Methods The data were evaluated and retrospectively gathered on archived singleton births, from medical records of a midwifery-led team, between May 2006 and May 2013. The target group of the study included mothers with a previous CS, who had a second birth. The sample consisted of 71 VBAC women and 583 who had normal spontaneous vaginal delivery (NSVD) as the 'non-caesarean' control group. Results The duration of labour was longer for the VBACs compared with first-time mothers who gave birth naturally (for duration 481-720 min, 27% vs 10.3%, respectively), episiotomy was more common for VBAC (20.7% vs 7.9%), and epidural analgesia was more often for VBAC (68.4% vs 10%). The percentage of 1-min Apgar score in the range 0-7 in the VBAC group was 5%, and there was no significant difference in women who had NSVD (3.6%). The Apgar score in the 5th minute was always above 8 for both groups. Conclusions Severe maternal and neonatal complications are infrequent, and therefore the necessity arises for further continuous studies to ascertain the safety of VBAC.

Objective International comparison of complete uterine rupture. Design Descriptive multi‐country population‐based study. Setting International. Population International Network of Obstetric Survey Systems (INOSS). Methods We merged individual data, collected prospectively in nine population‐based studies, of women with complete uterine rupture, defined as complete disruption of the uterine muscle and the uterine serosa, regardless of symptoms and rupture of fetal membranes. Main outcome measures Prevalence of complete uterine rupture, regional variation and correlation with rates of caesarean section (CS) and trial of labour after CS (TOLAC). Severe maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Results We identified 864 complete uterine ruptures in 2 625 017 deliveries. Overall prevalence was 3.3 (95% CI 3.1–3.5) per 10 000 deliveries, 22 (95% CI 21–24) in women with and 0.6 (95% CI 0.5–0.7) in women without previous CS. Prevalence in women with previous CS was negatively correlated with previous CS rate (ρ = −0.917) and positively correlated with TOLAC rate of the background population (ρ = 0.600). Uterine rupture resulted in peripartum hysterectomy in 87 of 864 women (10%, 95% CI 8–12%) and in a perinatal death in 116 of 874 infants (13.3%, 95% CI 11.2–15.7) whose mother had uterine rupture. Overall rate of neonatal asphyxia was 28% in neonates who survived. Conclusions Higher prevalence of complete uterine ruptures per TOLAC was observed in countries with low previous CS and high TOLAC rates. Rates of hysterectomy and perinatal death are about 10% following complete uterine rupture, but in women undergoing TOLAC the rates are extremely low (only 2.2 and 3.2 per 10 000 TOLACs, respectively.) Tweetable abstract Prevalence of complete uterine rupture is higher in countries with low previous CS and high TOLAC rates.

Background: Uterus didelphys is a Mullerian duct anomaly which is clinically significant because only 45% of UD patients achieve term delivery and have associated increased risk of spontaneous abortion, foetal growth retardation, mal presentation, and a significant caesarean section delivery rate. Case: A 26-year-old Gravida 2 Para 1 Abortion 1 woman with uterus didelphys and associated complete, non-communicating, longitudinal vaginal septum carries a pregnancy to term in her right uterus in rural Canada. She delivers her baby at 41 weeks gestational age via vacuum assisted spontaneous vaginal delivery. Conclusion: This case report supports more recent literature that uterus didelphys should not be considered as an absolute indication for caesarean delivery. A trial of labour is conceivable with obstetrician gynaecologist involvement in more rural centers with a care plan in place.

BACKGROUND The caesarean section rate has seen an upward trend in the past few decades. Women with previous caesarean section contributes 40-50% of these. So a decrease in this group can go a long way in reducing the caesarean section rate. AIM To compare the maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality between cases of vaginal birth after caesarean and elective repeat caesarean section. MATERIALS AND METHODS A prospective comparative study was carried out in a tertiary care centre for a period of nine months. RESULTS The neonatal morbidity was comparable in the two groups as evidenced by the Apgar scores and NICU admissions. Though there was no significant difference in major causes of maternal morbidity between the two groups, the duration of hospital stay was significantly greater in the elective caesarean groups. CONCLUSION VBAC is a safe and better alternative in most women with history of prior caesarean delivery instead of subjecting her to a repeat caesarean.