Comparison of maternal and neonatal outcomes in elective LSCS done at 38 weeks vs 40 weeks of gestation: A randomised trial

Abstract

Timing of elective caesarean deliveries at term has become an important issue nowadays due to the progressive increase in caesarean delivery rates in recent years all over the world. A study was undertaken to compare the maternal and neonatal outcomes in 400women undergoing elective cesarean section at 38 and 40 weeks of gestation each at a tertiary centre in Delhi over a period of one year. The maternal outcome parameters were PPH, scar Dehiscence, Wound Infection and need for transfusion of any blood products. The neonatal outcome was assessed on the basis of APGAR score and NICU admissions. No significant maternal or neonatal complication of Elective LSCS at 38 or 40 weeks were observed. It was thus concluded that scheduling elective LSCS at 38 weeks may be an acceptable option in women with good maternal and perinatal outcome.