Women's attitudes regarding mode of delivery and cesarean delivery on maternal request

Abstract

Objective. To explore women's attitudes and beliefs regarding cesarean delivery and cesarean delivery on maternal request (CDMR).

Study design. Anonymous questionnaires assessing patient demographics, knowledge, and attitudes about CDMR were distributed at the time of routine mid-trimester ultrasound appointment.

Results. Eight hundred thirty three out of 3929 (21.2%) potential participants completed the questionnaire. About 81.7% of participants indicated that they believed that vaginal delivery was a safer alternative for the mother and 72.8% believed that it was safer for the fetus. While only 6.1% of women thought that CDMR was ‘a good idea’, most believed that women should have the right to choose their mode of delivery and that the option should be offered to everyone (85.9% and 79.6%, respectively). Socioeconomic and demographic variables did not significantly influence the participants' responses.

Conclusion. Majority of women believe that vaginal delivery is safer for the mother and baby and would prefer to have a vaginal delivery if given the option.

Keywords:

• Cesarean
• maternal request
• patient attitudes

Acknowledgements

The authors thank Rose Ward for her contribution to data processing. The authors did not report any potential conflicts of interest. This investigation was sponsored by Memorial Medical Center Foundation.