Trial labor following previous cesarean section.

Elective repeat cesarean section continues to remain the standard of care in the United States. This paper is a study of 242 patients with previous cesarean section who requested and were allowed a trial of labor. One hundred sixty-six (69%) achieved successful vaginal delivery with no maternal or fetal mortality or significant morbidity. Review of the English literature indicates similar results in other independent studies. Continued accumulation of cases showing the efficacy of post-cesarean section trial of labor should encourage a reassessment of the continuing practice of elective repeat cesarean section.