Objective: The purpose of the study is to better understand the factors women consider when deciding to have a repeat cesarean section or VBAC. This study explores women’s perceptions of their choices for birth following a previous cesarean section.
Design: Survey research with a qualitative component.
Population, Sample, Setting, Years: This study took place in a high-risk regional referral centre where approximately 4,000 births occur annually. Sixty-six (66) women with uncomplicated pregnancies and experiencing a repeat cesarean or VBAC and giving birth to a healthy infant were invited to participate. We obtained complete data on 55 women.
Concept or Variables Studied Together or Intervention and Outcome Variables: We looked at the kinds of information each woman received, who contributed to her decision-making, where she obtained her information on risks and benefits and satisfaction with the final decision.
Methods: A 10-item questionnaire was given to each study participant during the early postpartum period before discharge from the hospital. Analysis was conducted on an intention to deliver basis and consisted of a summary of demographic information, frequency distributions and content analysis of women’s responses.
Findings: More VBAC-intended group women identified it was not easy to make the decision although this group reported greater certainty that there was adequate time to make the decision. There was a high degree of feeling informed when reason for previous decision was known. Statistical significance was found with respect to satisfaction with the decision taken as well as the nurse’s influence on
Conclusions: Implications: A better understanding of this complex decision women face could provide insight into the reasons for their choices and their educational or emotional needs.
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Back to 14th International Nursing Research Congress
Sigma Theta Tau International
10-12 July 2003