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Antenatal factors that may predict successful vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) play a relevant role to select patients who could be candidate to a trial of labour after caesarean section (TOLAC). There is a relevant antenatal scoring system and a nomogram for prediction of vaginal birth after caesarean delivery. A nonrecurring indication for previous caesarean section (CS) is associated with a much higher successful VBAC rate than recurrent indications. Prior vaginal deliveries can be considered excellent prognostic indicators of successful VBAC. A low vertical uterine incision does not seem to adversely affect VBAC success rates as compared to a low transverse incision. Maternal obesity and diabetes mellitus adversely affect VBAC outcomes. Foetal macrosomia does not appear to be a contraindication to VBAC, as success rates exceeding 50% are achieved and uterine rupture rates are not increased. Success rates decrease when interval increases. Twin gestation does not preclude VBAC. Post-date pregnancies may deliver successfully by VBAC in greater than two-thirds of cases. Mechanical induction should be preferred in case of post-date pregnancy. Attempted VBAC will be successful in the majority of attempted cases.

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.

OBJECTIVE To compare neonatal outcomes of women with a body mass index (BMI) of ≥35 kg/m2 who underwent a trial of labour with those of women who underwent a planned primary caesarean section (CS). DESIGN A retrospective cohort study of births between April 2012 and March 2014. SETTING A provincial database: Better Outcomes Registry & Network (BORN) Ontario, Canada. POPULATION A cohort of 8752 women with a BMI of ≥35 kg/m2 who had a singleton birth at 38-42 weeks of gestation. METHODS Neonatal outcomes were compared between women who underwent a trial of labour (with either a successful vaginal birth or intrapartum CS) and those who underwent a planned CS. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE A composite of any of the following outcomes: intrapartum neonatal death, neonatal intensive care unit admission, 5-minute Apgar score of

Uterine rupture is a feared complication when a woman with a uterus scarred by a caesarean section (CS) is in labour. The increased awareness of the possibility of uterine rupture and dramatic consequences including perinatal asphyxia has lead to guidelines for management when undertaking a trial of labour after caesarean section Uterine rupture occurs in an estimated 35 per 10 000 women with a previous CS undergoing labour (INOSS study of uterine rupture, BJOG 2019;126:370-381), but is extremely rare before the onset of labour and in the unscarred uterus. Our knowledge of prelabour uterine rupture is confined merely to a small number of published case reports and case series in the literature.

Objective This quality improvement (QI) initiative was designed to identify gaps between evidence-based or hospital recommendations for trial of labour after cesarean delivery (TOLAC) labour management and clinical practice. Methods Viable, singleton pregnancies from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2018, undergoing TOLAC were extracted from the electronic medical record. Sixty randomly selected charts were reviewed for (1) consent, (2) induction methods, (3) oxytocin use, (4) continuous fetal monitoring, (5) admission indication, (6) examination regularity, (7) duration of dystocia before decision to perform cesarean delivery (CD), and (8) maternal complications. Results The institutional vaginal birth after cesarean rate was 71%. Documented consent to TOLAC on admission was present in 50% of cases. Oxytocin augmentation was used in 38% of cases, and the median maximum dose was 4 mU/min (interquartile range [IQR] 3–7.5 mU/min). Delays in initiating oxytocin were identified in 47% of those patients. Decisions to deliver by cesarean were made after a median time of 5 hours and 40 minutes (IQR 3 hours and 30 minutes to 6 hours and 35 minutes) of failure to progress despite adequate contractions. After this decision, median time to delivery was 1 hour and 11 minutes (IQR 57 minutes to 2 hours and 16 minutes). Complications included postpartum hemorrhage (5%) and chorioamnionitis (6.7%). Surgical injury occurred in 10% of intrapartum CD. Peripartum complications were associated with delay in oxytocin implementation (χ2 (1) = 9.80; P Conclusion Areas for QI were identified in (1) consent, (2) duration of dystocia before decision to proceed with CD and delay to CD, and (3) peripartum complications. We recognize the potential use of this as a tool to identify areas for QI and prospective study.

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.

Objective To investigate the association of chorioamnionitis and its duration with adverse maternal outcomes by mode of delivery. Design A retrospective cohort study. Setting Data from the Consortium on Safe Labor Study in the USA (2002-2008). Population Singleton deliveries at ≥23 weeks of gestation (221 274 assessed deliveries, 62 331 by caesarean section). Methods The association of chorioamnionitis, and secondarily the duration of chorioamnionitis estimated from intrapartum antibiotic use, with adverse maternal outcomes was analysed using logistic regression with generalised estimating equations, adjusting for age, parity, race, pregestational diabetes, chronic hypertension, gestational age at delivery, study site and delivery year. Analyses were stratified by vaginal versus caesarean delivery. Main outcome measures The composite adverse maternal outcome included: postpartum transfusion, endometritis, wound/perineal infection/separation, venous thromboembolism, hysterectomy, admission to intensive care unit and/or death. Results Chorioamnionitis was associated with higher odds of the composite adverse maternal outcome with caesarean delivery (adjusted odds ratio 2.31; 95% CI 1.97-2.71); and the association persisted regardless of whether a woman had a trial of labour, preterm delivery or maternal group B streptococcus colonisation. The most common adverse outcomes after caesarean section were postpartum transfusion (56.0%) and wound/perineal infection or endometritis (38.6%). Chorioamnionitis was not associated with adverse maternal outcomes after vaginal delivery. The duration of chorioamnionitis as the exposure did not alter the association between chorioamnionitis and adverse maternal outcomes. Conclusions Chorioamnionitis, but not the estimated duration, was associated with increased odds of adverse maternal outcomes with caesarean delivery. This finding has implications for care programmes to prevent maternal morbidity after a caesarean section complicated by chorioamnionitis. Tweetable abstract Chorioamnionitis, but not its duration, increases the risk of adverse maternal outcomes with caesarean delivery.

Centres providing maternity care and offering a trial of labour after cesarean must develop and use maternal educational and consent processes that emphasize choice and autonomy related to options for and decisions surrounding vaginal birth after cesarean and elective repeat cesarean delivery. These centres should have administrative systems and processes that take into account local resources for cesarean delivery services, including team-based complex maternity risk support and an urgency consensus on the fetal, maternal, and maternal-fetal indications for a surgical delivery to ensure an appropriate decision-to-delivery interval.

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.

Objective Biomechanics of pelvic floor muscles is becoming an important field of research in understanding a complex process of labour. Current evidence indicates that the levator ani stretches to allow passage of the fetus through the birth canal. We sought to identify properties of the functional female pelvic floor during pregnancy that could help to predict the mode of delivery, especially in women who underwent caesarean section in the past. Methods A single centre prospective cohort study of pregnant women in the 3rd trimester attending antenatal clinic. Participants were categorised into three groups: 1. nulliparous, 2. previous one vaginal delivery and 3. previous one caesarean section who chose a trial of labour in their current pregnancy. All women underwent ultrasonographic evaluation of their pelvic floor muscles. Distensibility and the mode of delivery were assessed in participants’ current pregnancies. The primary outcome was the mode of delivery. ANOVA test was used for statistical analysis. Results 133 women were included: 55 nulliparous, 52 primiparous (previous one vaginal birth), and 26 primiparous (previous one LSCS and planned for vaginal delivery after caesarean (VBAC)). Participants were scanned at an average gestation of 32 weeks. The inter-observer reliability test for puborectalis distensibility was good (kappa 0.75). Overall, women who delivered vaginally had a more distensible puborectalis muscle than those who delivered by emergency LSCS regardless of their previous type of delivery. Women who underwent a successful VBAC had less distensible pelvic floor muscles compared to their nulliparous and primiparous counterparts (who delivered vaginally in the past). Conclusion These results support our basic conceptual theory of puborectalis muscle distensibility influencing the mode of delivery and endorse application of dynamic pelvic floor ultrasound in future studies. We identified measurable differences in the functional female pelvic anatomy aiding a better understanding of physiology of the labour. There are trends towards lesser distensibility in women who delivered by LSCS.

To compare the demographic and clinical characteristics between women who chose elective repeat Caesarean section (ERCS) versus trial of labour after Caesarean section (TOLAC) in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador (NL).We conducted a retrospective case control study of women with live singleton gestations delivering at term in St. John's, NL between January 1, 2001 and December 31, 2014. Inclusion criteria were women who had a previous single lower segment Caesarean section (LSCS). TOLAC, successful TOLAC, and VBAC rates were calculated. Demographic and clinical characteristics were compared between women who chose ERCS versus TOLAC. Univariate analyses and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed, and adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% CIs were calculated.A total of 1579 women were included, of whom 160 (10.1%) chose TOLAC, with 107 resulting in successful VBAC (67% successful TOLAC rate). The overall VBAC rate was 6.8%. Women who chose ERCS compared with those who chose TOLAC were more likely to be obese (aOR 3.20, 95% CI 1.85-5.54, P 0.001), less likely to have had GA at delivery greater than 40 weeks (aOR 0.13, 95% CI 0.08-0.21, P 0.001), less likely to have had a previous vaginal delivery (aOR 0.40, 95% CI 0.20-0.80, P 0.001), and less likely to have had the previous CS for breech presentation (aOR 0.51, 95% CI 0.33-0.80, P = 0.003).The overall TOLAC and VBAC rates in St. John's are low when compared with reported national rates. The successful TOLAC rate is within the expected range reported in the literature. Differences exist between women who chose ERCS compared with TOLAC.

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.

Objective To explore nulliparous women's perceptions of decision making regarding mode of delivery under China's two-child policy. Design Qualitative descriptive design with in-depth semi-structured interviews. Setting Postnatal wards at a tertiary specialized women's hospital in Shanghai, China. Participants 21 nulliparous women 2–3 days postpartum were purposively sampled until data saturation. Methods In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted between October 8th, 2015 and January 31st, 2016. Results Two overarching descriptive categories were identified: (1) women's decision-making process: stability versus variability, and (2) factors affecting decision making: variety versus interactivity. Four key themes emerged from each category: (1) initial decision making with certainty: anticipated trial of labour, failed trial of labour, ‘shy away' and compromise, anticipated caesarean delivery; (2) initial decision making with uncertainty: anticipated trial of labour, failed trial of labour, ‘shy away' and compromise; (3) internal factors affecting decision making: knowledge and attitude, and childbirth self-efficacy; and (4) external factors affecting decision making: social support, and the situational environment. Conclusion and implications for practice At the initial period of China's two-child policy, nulliparous women have perceived their decision-making process regarding mode of delivery as one with complexity and uncertainty, influenced by both internal and external factors. This may have implications for the obstetric setting to develop a well-designed decision support system for pregnant women during the entire pregnancy periods. And it is recommended that care providers should assess women's preferences for mode of delivery from early pregnancy and provide adequate perinatal support and continuity of care for them.

Objective To determine the proportion of women in Robson group 5 (RG5) who were eligible for a trial of labour after Caesarean (TOLAC) and, among eligible candidates, identify determinants of having a TOLAC and subsequent vaginal delivery (VD). Methods This population-based cohort study used data derived from the Nova Scotia Atlee Perinatal Database. Deliveries from 1998–2014 to women in RG5 (≥1 previous CS with a singleton term cephalic fetus) were included. Eligibility for a TOLAC was based on SOGC criteria. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify characteristics independently associated with TOLAC and VD. The characteristics associated with VD were used in a logistic model to predict the theoretical probability of VD in women who did not have a TOLAC. Results Of the 15 111 deliveries in RG5, 75.3% were by CS. Of the 14 763 eligible women, 5488 (37.2%) had a TOLAC, of which 3739 (68.1%) resulted in VD. Predictors of VD included high area–level income and either a CS without labour or a spontaneous VD in the preceding pregnancy. While mode of previous delivery also predicted TOLAC among eligible women, high area–level income was associated with reduced odds of TOLAC. The probability of VD in women who did not undergo TOLAC was estimated to be 47.1%, and the lowest CS rate attainable in RG5 was estimated at 46.3%. Conclusions Sociodemographic factors such as income and previous mode of delivery were associated with the rates of TOLAC and subsequent VD in eligible women, and suggest that the Caesarean section rate in RG5 could be safely reduced.

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.

Objective To provide evidence-based guidelines for the provision of a trial of labour (TOL) after Caesarean section. Outcome Fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality associated with vaginal birth after Caesarean (VBAC) and repeat Caesarean section. Evidence MEDLINE database was searched for articles published from January 1, 1995, to February 28, 2004, using the key words "vaginal birth after Caesarean (Cesarean) section." The quality of evidence is described using the Evaluation of Evidence criteria outlined in the Report of the Canadian Task Force on the Periodic Health Exam. Recommendations 1.Provided there are no contraindications, a woman with 1 previous transverse low-segment Caesarean section should be offered a trial of labour (TOL) with appropriate discussion of maternal and perinatal risks and benefits. The process of informed consent with appropriate documentation should be an important part of the birth plan in a woman with a previous Caesarean section (II-2B). 2.The intention of a woman undergoing a TOL after Caesarean section should be clearly stated, and documentation of the previous uterine scar should be clearly marked on the prenatal record (II-2B). 3.For a safe labour after Caesarean section, a woman should deliver in a hospital where a timely Caesarean section is available. The woman and her health care provider must be aware of the hospital resources and the availability of obstetric, anesthetic, pediatric, and operating-room staff (II-2A). 4.Each hospital should have a written policy in place regarding the notification and (or) consultation for the physicians responsible for a possible timely Caesarean section (III-B). 5.In the case of a TOL after Caesarean, an urgent laparotomy should be set-up immediately to facilitate delivery as quickly as possible (III-C). 6.Continuous electronic fetal monitoring of women attempting a TOL after Caesarean section is recommended (II-2A). 7.Suspected uterine rupture requires urgent attention and expedited laparotomy to attempt to decrease maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality (II-2A). 8.Oxytocin augmentation is not contraindicated in women undergoing a TOL after Caesarean section (II-2A). 9.Medical induction of labour with oxytocin may be associated with an increased risk of uterine rupture and should be used carefully after appropriate counselling (II-2B). 10.Medical induction of labour with prostaglandin E2 (dinoprostone) is associated with an increased risk of uterine rupture and should not be used except in rare circumstances and after appropriate counselling (II-2B). 11.Prostaglandin E1 (misoprostol) is associated with a high risk of uterine rupture and should not be used as part of a TOL after Caesarean section (II-2A). 12.A Foley catheter may be safely used to ripen the cervix in a woman planning a TOL after Caesarean section (II-2A). 13.The available data suggest that a trial of labour in women with more than 1 previous Caesarean section is likely to be successful but is associated with a higher risk of uterine rupture (II-2B). 14.Multiple gestation is not a contraindication to TOL after Caesarean section (II-2B). 15.Diabetes mellitus is not a contraindication to TOL after Caesarean section (II-2B). 16.Suspected fetal macrosomia is not a contraindication to TOL after Caesarean section (II-2B). 17.Women delivering within 18 months of a Caesarean section should be counselled about an increased risk of uterine rupture in labour (II-2B). 18.Postdatism is not a contraindication to a TOL after Caesarean section (II-2B). 19.Every effort should be made to obtain the previous Caesarean section operative report to determine the type of uterine incision used. In situations where the scar is unknown, information concerning the circumstances of the previous delivery is helpful in determining the likelihood of a low transverse incision. If the likelihood of a lower transverse incision is high, a TOL after Caesarean section can be offered (II-2B). Validation These guidelines were approved by the Clinical Practice Obstetrics and Executive Committees of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada.

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.

Background Counselling women for and managing birth after caesarean section are important. Research is needed on evaluation of antenatal factors that predict likelihood of successful trial of labour after caesarean section (TOLAC). Aim To evaluate the effect of gestational weight gain on mode of delivery in women having TOLAC. Materials and methods A retrospective cohort study of eligible women who underwent TOLAC (January 2012 to July 2015) at a large urban hospital. Gestational weight gain was classified as ‘excessive’ or ‘not excessive’ based on calculated pre-pregnancy body mass index. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate the association of gestational weight gain and vaginal birth, adjusting for socio-demographic and pregnancy-related factors. Results Of 534 women, those who gained excessive weight were less likely to have a vaginal birth as women who did not (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.48, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.29–0.81)). Women with previous vaginal birth were more likely to have a vaginal birth (aOR 3.74, 95% CI 1.90–7.36), while women ≥35, women who had an epidural, and women who delivered at 40 weeks, were less likely (aOR 0.58, 95% CI 0.35–0.97, aOR 0.12, 95% CI 0.07–0.22, and aOR 0.53, 95% CI 0.31–0.91, respectively). Conclusions Gaining excessive weight in pregnancy is potentially modifiable, and can be incorporated into individual antenatal counselling, and into risk prediction models, to assist with informed decision making around planned mode of delivery in women with previous caesarean section. Future research could focus on interventions to reduce gestational weight gain in women planning TOLAC.

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

Objective: Our quantitative analysis examined what factors influence pregnant women to choose a vaginal birth after a caesarean (VBAC).Background: There is growing concern over the high rates of caesarean section; much of the high rate is driven by repeat caesareans. A trial of labour after a previous caesarean is an option for many women increasingly supported by medical literature.Methods: Survey data from 173 pregnant women who had had only one birth by caesarean were analysed using a hierarchical binary logistic regression model.Results: Desire for the experience of a vaginal birth strongly predicted choice of VBAC; however, this relationship was dampened among women with a high (versus low) powerful others (e.g. doctors and nurses) locus of control. Prior reason for a caesarean section and practical factors also play a role.Conclusion: Women may be more likely to choose VBAC if they are encouraged to believe that they can help control the outcome, especially if their desire for a vaginal birt...

Polyhydramnios is associated with an increased risk of cesarean section. The aetiology of polyhydramnios and the characteristics of the labour may be confounding factors. The objective was to study the characteristics and mode of delivery in case of pregnancy complicated with idiopathic polyhydramnios.This retrospective matched and controlled study included all pregnant women with idiopathic polyhydramnios (amniotic index25cm or single deepest pocket8cm) diagnosed at the 2nd or 3rd trimester and persistent at term delivery (37weeks of pregnancy) in our institution. We excluded pregnancies in which the polyhydramnios could be explained by infection, gestational diabetes, congenital malformation, abnormal karyotype, placental anomalies, alloimmunization as well as pregnancies in which an amniocentesis for the purpose of diagnosis had not been performed. Data were gathered from a tertiary care university hospital register from 1998-2015. Cases of polyhydramnios were matched with the following two women who presented for labour management with spontaneous cephalic presentation, matching for delivery date, maternal age, parity, body mass index. The main outcome measure was the risk of cesarean section. Univariate and multivariate adjusted analysis were performed.We identified 108 women with idiopathic polyhydramnios and compared them with 216 matched women. Among them, 94 and 188 attempted a trial of labour. Maternal age, mean term delivery and birthweight were 31 years, 39+5weeks gestation and 3550 g. We did not observe differences in maternal characteristics, epidural analgesia and rate of abnormal fetal heart tracing. Induced labour and non-vertex presentations (forehead, bregma, face) were more frequent in the polyhydramnios group (respectively 57.9% versus 27.8%, P0.05 and 7.8% versus 1%, P0.05). Cesarean section rate was higher in the case of polyhydramnios in the overall population (45.4% versus 8%, P0.05) and remained higher after exclusion of cases of induced labour and non-vertex presentation (38.4% versus 3.8%, P0.05). Amniotomy was more frequent in pregnancies with polyhydramnios (55.8% versus 39.1%, P0.05). After adjustment for matching and confounding variables, polyhydramnios was found to be a risk factor for cesarean section (OR 21.02; CI 95% 8.004-55.215, P0.01).Idiopathic polyhydramnios increased the risk of prolonged first stage of labour, non-vertex presentation and cesarean section.