The extended gentle caesarean section protocol-expanding the scope and adding value for the family: a cross-sectional study

PurposeIn Switzerland, about one in three children is born by caesarean section (CS). For many women, this means a restricted birth experience, limited observation of the birth process and a restricted involvement. We evaluated an extended gentle CS protocol, which offered early intraoperative skin-to-skin contact and the possibility of observing the delivery of the baby from the abdomen through a transparent drape.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study incorporating data from a purposely tailored questionnaire and clinical routine data. The extended gentle CS protocol was compared with the gentle CS, which does not allow the possibility of observing the delivery. Data were collected online and analysed by multivariable regression for quantitative data and content analysis for all text responses to open questions, respectively.Results193 women completed the questionnaire. Of these, 154 had a gentle CS and 39 had an extended gentle CS. Multivariable regression did not reveal a statistically significant difference for extended gentle CS with regard to satisfaction with childbirth, mother-to-child bonding, or breastfeeding duration. Nevertheless, early intraoperative skin-to-skin contact was associated with the fulfilment of birth expectations. Furthermore, most women who experienced an extended gentle CS would prefer the same procedure for any potential future CS.ConclusionsAlthough our study showed no statistically significant difference in satisfaction from using a transparent drape, most women expressed a preference for this technique. We recommend that the option of an extended gentle CS should be offered to all women for whom CS is indicated.

Automated summary

In Switzerland, one third of children are born by caesarean section, which often leads to a restricted birth experience for women. An extended gentle CS protocol, offering early skin-to-skin contact and observation of the delivery process through a transparent drape, was evaluated. Although there was no significant difference in satisfaction, most women preferred the extended gentle CS and recommended it as an option for all women undergoing CS.