Vaginal Delivery Versus C-Section: Risks for Uterine Rupture

Expecting your first baby can be a time of extreme excitement but also a time of extreme anxiety and fear. Like many new moms, the focus of your pregnancy has probably been on the aspects of proper diet, nutrition and exercise. In addition to these aspects of your care, it is important to also look at issues involving the risks that may arise during labor and delivery, especially those that result in the need for cesarean section.

While you may be preparing for the birth of your infant by vaginal delivery, the fact remains that over 25 percent of all infants born in the United States are born to mothers who undergo cesarean section. During your pregnancy, as you manage your health and prepare for labor and delivery, it is important to also understand the aspects of vaginal delivery and the associated complications that may result in the need for c-section.

One risk, affecting approximately 15 percent of women who ultimately undergo a cesarean section, is a risk known as uterine rupture. Because a uterine rupture occurs spontaneously, without any prior indicators, it is important to discuss this risk with your obstetrician as part of your prenatal and pre-delivery planning process as it is commonly a risk that results in a sudden need for cesarean section.

In medical terms, a uterine rupture is defined as a labor complication that results in the rupture of the uterus, requiring immediate surgical intervention, known as c-section, to not only save and repair the uterus but also the delivery the infant. For many women, if a delivery results in cesarean section, there is great risk that future pregnancies will be at risk for uterine rupture.

If you are concerned about your risk for uterine rupture, you may want to discuss the alternatives to uterine stimulation drugs, such as Pitocin, as uterine stimulating drugs may place you at a greater risk for developing uterine rupture.