Comparison of Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes in Unplanned Cesarean Section and Normal Delivery in Bandar Abbas Persian Gulf Hospital

Background: One of the objectives of the health reform plan is to reduce unnecessary cesarean operations, which requires comprehensive research. The current study aimed to compare the maternal and neonatal outcomes in unplanned cesarean and normal vaginal delivery (NVD) in the Persian Gulf Hospital in Bandar Abbas. Methods: A total of 200 pregnant women with gestational ages ranging from 37 to 42 weeks in two groups, normal delivery and cesarean section (CS), were evaluated. The maternal and neonatal information included the mother’s age, gestational age, abnormal postpartum hemorrhage, need for blood transfusion, injuries to the genitourinary system, breastfeeding in the first hour, length of hospital stay, and hospitalization costs, baby gender, birth weight, head circumference at birth, neonatal injuries, respiratory problems, Apgar scores, asphyxia, and the need for infant hospitalization. Results: There was no difference between the two groups in abnormal postpartum hemorrhage, need for blood transfusion, injuries to the genitourinary system, mother’s age, and breastfeeding the infant. However, the length of hospital stay and hospitalization costs were higher in the cesarean delivery group. Among the neonatal outcomes, there were no statistically significant differences in Apgar score, asphyxia, rate of neonatal injuries, and the need for hospitalization. However, respiratory problems were higher in the cesarean group. Conclusion: The length of hospital stay and the cost of cesarean delivery are longer. Additionally, respiratory problems are higher in infants born via a CS. Thus, it is suggested that a CS be performed if there is a scientific indication.