Is it worth inducing labour in women with a previous caesarean delivery?

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the outcome of labour induction following a previous caesarean section. A total of 43 cases were identified; 23 out of those (53.5%) achieved vaginal delivery. The remaining 20 cases (46.5%) had a repeat caesarean. A total of 25 women had ≥ 1 previous vaginal deliveries and in the remaining 18, the previous caesarean was the only pregnancy carried before the current pregnancy. Out of the 23 women who successfully delivered vaginally, 16 cases (69.6%) had a history of ≥ 1 previous vaginal delivery, while no such history was reported in the remaining seven cases (30.4%). The indications for a repeat caesarean were failed induction of labour in five cases (25%); fetal distress in seven cases (35%); failure-to-progress in eight cases (40%). Only one case (2.3%) of uterine rupture was reported. In conclusion, labour induction following a previous caesarean section is an effective and safe intervention. Vaginal delivery can be anticipated in the majority of these women. This study emphasises the need for thorough counselling of these women regarding benefits and risks of induction of labour, and also highlights the necessity of shared patient–doctor decision-making.

Keywords::

• Induction of labour
• vaginal birth after caesarean

Acknowledgement

The author would like to thank Dr Akinjde Ashaye, Dr Fozia Malik and the midwifery staff at Southend University Hospital, Essex, UK, for their contribution to collection of the data of this study.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.