The use of obstetrical procedures in the care of low-risk women.

Data from birth certificates were used to examine the pattern of obstetrical procedures used in the care of a sample of low-risk women. The data suggests that hospitals with greater technological capabilities and more specialized medical manpower have a greater tendency to use the obstetrical procedures of cesarean section, forceps delivery and drug induced labor. However, the utilization rates of these procedures also varied considerably between hospitals with comparable technology and medical staffs.