Stillbirth and caesarean section.
In one health region between 1991 and 1996, 105 (11%) of all stillbirths were delivered by caesarean section. Forty-eight (46%) were unexpected at the time of birth, two of whom were macerated. Most of the macerated stillbirths were one of a multiple pregnancy, while 22 of the fresh stillbirths were delivered by caesarean section prior to the onset of labour. Twenty-one caesarean sections were performed because of failed attempts to induce labour, or at the request of the mother. The unexpectedly high rate of stillbirths delivered by caesarean section could be reduced by improved methods and understanding of antenatal and intrapartum fetal monitoring and techniques for inducing labour.
Mackenzie
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John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK.
Gould
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