[Continuous support during childbirth to reduce cesarean sections: evidence brief for policy]

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Public Health
• Maternal-Child Health

Background:

• Global cesarean section rates have risen dramatically, exceeding 56% of births in Brazil.
• Elective cesarean sections pose significant risks to maternal and child health.
• There is a need for effective strategies to reduce cesarean birth rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify non-clinical interventions for reducing cesarean section rates.
• To summarize the best available evidence on continuous support during labor and birth.
• To evaluate the impact of continuous support on maternal and infant outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature.
• Inclusion of systematic reviews published in English, Portuguese, or Spanish.
• Focus on non-clinical interventions, specifically continuous support during labor and birth.

Main Results:

• Continuous support reduced cesarean rates by up to 51%.
• It decreased unnecessary clinical interventions, shortened labor duration, and improved Apgar scores.
• Benefits included enhanced breastfeeding, faster postpartum recovery, increased maternal satisfaction, and higher rates of spontaneous vaginal delivery.

Conclusions:

• Continuous support is a highly effective, evidence-based strategy for reducing cesarean births.
• The intervention benefits both mothers and newborns, fostering a safer, more respectful birth experience.
• Adoption of continuous support in healthcare settings can improve maternal rights and reduce healthcare costs.