Non-pregnant patients' preference for delivery route

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Public Health
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Understanding women's preferences for obstetric delivery routes is crucial for prenatal counseling and healthcare planning.
• Awareness of maternal and fetal risks associated with different delivery methods (cesarean vs. vaginal) is essential for informed decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey non-pregnant women regarding their preferred obstetric delivery route.
• To assess awareness of maternal and fetal risks associated with cesarean and vaginal deliveries.
• To determine the percentage of women who would elect cesarean delivery and explore demographic correlations.

Main Methods:

• Anonymous survey administered to non-pregnant women presenting for routine gynecologic care.
• Analysis of demographic variables including age, race, employment, insurance, and income.
• Assessment of knowledge regarding delivery risks and benefits using a Likert Scale.

Main Results:

• 13.3% of surveyed women preferred cesarean section.
• A significant demographic factor was race, with 21.7% of non-white women and 7.8% of white women preferring cesarean delivery.
• Most women expressed neutral opinions regarding maternal and neonatal risks, indicating a general lack of awareness.

Conclusions:

• A notable percentage of non-pregnant women express a preference for elective cesarean delivery.
• Racial disparities exist in delivery route preferences, with non-white women showing a stronger inclination towards cesarean birth.
• A significant gap in knowledge regarding the risks of different obstetric delivery routes necessitates improved patient counseling.