Clinical Indications Associated With Primary Cesarean Birth

Cesarean birth is the most common surgical procedure in the United States and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality when compared to vaginal birth. Of the more than 4 million births a year, one in three is now a cesarean. A better understanding of the clinical indications contributing to the current prevalence in primary cesarean rates can inform prevention strategies. This column takes a second look at two recent studies in which researchers evaluated the clinical indications associated with primary cesarean birth rates.