Multiple repeat caesarean deliveries: do they increase maternal and neonatal morbidity?

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effects of the increased number of caesarean deliveries (CDs) in cases of multiple repeat caesarean deliveries (MRCDs) on maternal and neonatal morbidity.

METHODS

MRCDs admitted to our hospital between January 2013 and September 2014 were analysed retrospectively. A total number of 1133 women were included in the study and were divided into 4 groups. Group 1: second CDs (n = 329); Group 2: third CDs (n = 225); Group 3: fourth CDs (n = 447); Group 4: fifth CDs (n = 132). The clinical, demographic, intraoperative and postoperative data of the patients were registered upon the review of patient files.

RESULTS

The differences among the groups were found to be statistically significant in terms of mean maternal age, gravida, APGAR (Activity, Pulse, Grimace, Appearance, Respiration) scores, hospital stay and operation time. In addition, the difference was also statistically significant for severe adhesion, bladder injury and premature birth. No statistically significant difference was observed among the groups with respect to placenta previa, placenta accreta, caesarean hysterectomy, uterine scar rupture.

CONCLUSIONS

According to our findings, MRCDs seem to increasing the maternal and neonatal morbidity even though they are not life-threatening.