Cesarean section rate: a comparison between family physicians and obstetricians

Fam Pract Res J. 1992 Sep;12(3):255-62.

Abstract

This retrospective study compared the cesarean section rates of family physicians and obstetricians for low-risk pregnancies. The study populations (n = 492) were demographically similar. The overall cesarean section rate for the study was 7.5%. Chi-square analysis revealed a statistically significant higher rate of cesarean section for obstetricians compared to family physicians. Obstetricians were overall three times more likely to deliver by cesarean section than were family physicians (11.3% compared to 3.8%). This pattern persisted for normal-length Stage I and Stage II labors. Equal cesarean section rates were noted in prolonged labor patterns. The rate of fetal distress, meconium, or other complications was equal between family physicians and obstetricians; equivalent fetal outcomes and Apgar scores were noted. None of the studied patient factors explained the difference in cesarean section rates between family physicians and obstetricians.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cesarean Section / statistics & numerical data*
  • Family Practice*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Obstetrics*
  • Pregnancy
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Risk Factors
  • Socioeconomic Factors