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Updated: Jul 5, 2026
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External Cephalic Version: Is it an Effective and Safe Procedure?
Published on: June 6, 2020
Neonatal morbidity and mortality after elective cesarean delivery
Caroline Signore1, Mark Klebanoff
1Pregnancy and Perinatology Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA. signorec@mail.NIH.gov
Clinics in Perinatology
|May 6, 2008
Summary
Elective cesarean delivery (ECD) at term shows mixed neonatal outcomes. While potentially reducing some injuries, ECD may increase respiratory issues and mortality risks, necessitating careful consideration of benefits versus risks.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neonatal Health
Background:
- Elective cesarean delivery (ECD) is increasingly common.
- Evidence on its impact on neonatal outcomes compared to vaginal birth is debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the effects of term elective cesarean delivery on neonatal morbidity and mortality.
- To evaluate the comparative safety of planned ECD versus planned vaginal delivery.
Main Methods:
- Review of available data on neonatal outcomes following elective cesarean delivery.
- Analysis of risks and benefits associated with planned cesarean versus planned vaginal birth.
Main Results:
- Data limitations prevent conclusive evidence on ECD safety.
- Some studies link ECD to increased neonatal respiratory morbidity and lacerations.
- Potential for decreased central and peripheral nervous system injury with ECD.
- Possible increased neonatal mortality risk with ECD, counterbalanced by reduced fetal demise risk in ongoing pregnancies.
Conclusions:
- Current data are insufficient to definitively recommend planned ECD over planned vaginal delivery.
- Patients and clinicians must weigh the competing risks and benefits of ECD.
- Further research is crucial to inform clinical decision-making regarding elective cesarean delivery.
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