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Old July 25th 04, 05:39 PM
Donna Metler
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Default Previous c-section linked with increased risk of stillbirth


"Ericka Kammerer" wrote in message
...

Add this to another reason to try to limit
unnecessary primary c-sections--apparently, a previous
c-section increases the risk of stillbirth in
subsequent pregnancies. Fortunately, while the
increase is statistically significant, it is not huge
(this study found an increase from 0.5 per 1000 to
1.1 per 1000 for unexplained stillbirth at or after
39 weeks), so the odds are still overwhelmingly in
favor of a healthy baby. Still, something that should
be considered when weighing either elective c-section
or interventions that increase the risk of c-section.

I'm not sure that correlation and causation are correct here. If C-sections
are performed for any reason other than "I want one", that implies that
there was a problem of some sort with the previous pregnancy. Since almost
any previous complication increases the risk of complications in the next
pregnancy, it is logical that women who have had a previous C-section would
be at higher risk for pregnancy complications, and therefore pregnancy loss,
including stillbirth.