Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 17, 2025
External Cephalic Version: Is it an Effective and Safe Procedure?
Published on: June 6, 2020
The decision-making process in the choice of VBAC: Facilitators and barriers from women's perception, a systematic
Greta Cosmai1,2, Maria Biondini1, Maria Panzeri1
1University of Milano Bicocca, Milano, Italy.
Introduction:
Vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) is associated with a lower risk of maternal morbidity, fewer complications in future pregnancies, and a reduced overall cesarean section (C-section) rate at the population level. Despite these benefits, a woman's decision for VBAC is shaped by multiple factors. This review aims to identify elements perceived by women as influential in the VBAC decision-making process.
Methods:
We conducted a systematic review between 1 June and 12 July 2024, using PubMed, CINAHL, Embase and PsycINFO. We included English-language studies (2014-2024) on women eligible for VBAC with ≥1 previous C-sections. Study quality was appraised using CASP. Findings were narratively and thematically synthesized.
Results:
Twenty-one studies met the inclusion criteria. Fifteen recurring factors were identified. 'Facilitators' of VBAC included: mother-newborn bonding; support from partner and family; desire for vaginal birth; previous VBAC experience; shorter postpartum recovery; partner and family support; social support from other women; healthcare professionals' attitudes; communication and respectful maternity care; and counseling. 'Barriers' included: anxiety and fear of the unknown; healthcare professional's misinformation and attitudes; coercive counseling; pain related to labor; loss of control; and perceived risk to mother or newborn.
Conclusions:
VBAC decision-making is influenced by past birth experiences, perceived support, and current concerns. Healthcare professionals' attitudes and high-quality counseling are key to informed, unbiased choices. Continuity of care, midwifery care and education can empower women and reduce unnecessary C-sections. However, as most studies are from high-income, English-speaking countries, findings may not generalize globally.
More Related Videos
05:46Introduction of Intracapsular Rotary-cut Procedures IRCP: A Modified Hysteromyomectomy Procedures Facilitating Fertility Preservation
Published on: January 17, 2019
14:43A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
Published on: January 12, 2018
Related Concept Videos
01:14Decision Making: Traditional Method
First, a specific claim about the population parameter is decided based on the research question and is stated in a simple form. Further, an opposing statement to this claim is also stated. These statements can act as null and alternative hypotheses, out of which a null hypothesis would be a...
01:09Decision Making: P-value Method
First, a specific claim about the population parameter is proposed. The claim is based on the research question and is stated in a simple form. Further, an opposing statement to the claim is also stated. These statements can act as null and alternative hypotheses: a null hypothesis would be a neutral statement while the alternative hypothesis can...
01:26Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
01:21Barriers to Effective Communication II
Cultural barriers:
Differences in values, beliefs, religion, knowledge, and tradition can significantly impact communication. Awareness of nonverbal cues is critical, especially when conversing with a patient from a different culture. What appears appropriate in one culture may be inappropriate in another.
Semantic barriers:
As a result of their tendency to use...
01:20Decision Making
Automatic decision-making is fast, intuitive, and relies on gut feelings...
01:29Nursing Interventions II: Selecting and Classifying the Nursing Interventions