Strategies to reduce cesarean deliveries: surveying Polish obstetricians on external cephalic version practices

The cross-sectional survey was conducted aiming to evaluate the knowledge and experiences of the Polish obstetricians and gynecologists regarding the External Cephalic Version (ECV) and investigate their practices concerning this procedure.

An online survey constituting author-created questionnaire with 22 questions, was distributed among gynecologists and obstetricians. The questionnaire evaluated participants' knowledge about ECV, work experiences, and workplace practices.

Out of 461 respondents, 56.20% were specialists in gynecology and obstetrics. Elective cesarean section (CS) was preferred by 78.70% for primiparas and 73.50% for multiparas with non-cephalic presentation, while ECV would be chosen by 21.3% and 23.6%, respectively. While 73.80% knew centers performing ECV, only 16.70% had actively participated in the procedure. Major differences in the experiences and knowledge regarding ECV were observed based on work experience, and workplace reference level. Experienced physicians showed higher concerns about ECV complications and emergency CS risks. The most common concerns regarding the procedure referred to periprocedural pain, perceived low efficacy, and complications, and were more prevalent among respondents with longer experience and from lower-reference centers.

The study demonstrated that among Polish obstetricians for term pregnancies with non-cephalic presentation, elective cesarean section is preferred over ECV, especially among experienced practitioners. Knowledge about ECV was relatively low, indicating a need for improved educational efforts. Addressing concerns about ECV's safety and efficacy, particularly through enhanced training and anesthesia options, could promote its adoption and reduce CS rates.