Comparison of Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes in Vaginal Birth after Caesarean Section

Background and Objective: Previous cesarean sections are the most common cause of increased cesarean section in many parts of the world, although it is not always necessary. Considering the high statistics of cesarean section in Iran and especially the high rate of repeat cesarean section and creating motivation for vaginal birth after cesarean section, this study was conducted in order to investigate the maternal and neonatal outcomes of vaginal birth after one cesarean section. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 104 pregnant women with a previous caesarean section and transverse incision on the lower segment in Ayatollah Rouhani Hospital of Babol in two groups; 50 people in the first group who underwent repeat emergency cesarean section and 54 people in the second group who consented to vaginal birth after cesarean section (VBAC). Demographic characteristics and maternal and neonatal complications were investigated and compared between the two groups. Findings: In this study, there were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of demographic characteristics. Infant mortality rate was reported in 6 cases (12%) in the first group and 2 cases (3.7%) in the second group. Furthermore, 3 babies (6%) in the repeat cesarean section group and 9 babies (16.7%) in the vaginal birth group after cesarean section were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit. The 5-minute Apgar was also significantly higher in the babies of the vaginal birth group after cesarean section (p=0.04). The duration of mother's hospitalization was 3.98±5.53 and 2.11±0.31 days in the repeat cesarean and vaginal birth groups, respectively (p=0.02). Conclusion: According to the results of this study, maternal and neonatal complications did not increase in vaginal birth after cesarean section, and if the mother wishes, vaginal birth can be performed after one cesarean section.