Midwifery
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Influence of timing of admission in labour and management of labour on method of birth: results from a randomised controlled trial of caseload midwifery (COSMOS trial).
to explore the relationship between the degree to which labour is established on admission to hospital and method of birth. ⋯ these findings that women allocated to caseload care were admitted to hospital later in labour, and that earlier admission was strongly associated with birth by caesarean section, suggest that remaining at home somewhat longer in labour may be one of the mechanisms by which caseload care was effective in reducing caesarean section in the COSMOS trial.
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the rates of primary, repeat, and elective caesarean deliveries have risen dramatically over the past several decades. The reasons for the rise are complex and likely reflect a cultural shift to a greater acceptance of surgical birth as a reasonable option, which may favour infant over maternal outcomes. The purpose of this interpretive qualitative study was to explore the complexities of women's and clinicians' choices around elective caesarean delivery. ⋯ counselling about elective caesarean and vaginal birth after a prior caesarean is complex and reflects an intersection of culture and science. Women and clinicians enter the discussion with different backgrounds and concerns, but ultimately want the best outcome possible. Future exploration should address shared decision-making, evidence-based clinical guidelines, and the social context of care.