Are there adverse outcomes for child health and development following caesarean section delivery? Can we justify using elective caesarean section to prevent obstetric pelvic floor damage?

introduction and hypothesisElective pre-labour Caesarean section (CS) delivery is widely regarded as the panacea for all pelvic floor dysfunction despite substantial epidemiological evidence that it is only partially protective. To demand a CS is also considered a right for the well-counselled patient, even without an elevated risk of incontinence or prolapse. In recent years there has been increasing data on possible adverse health outcomes for children delivered by CS over those delivered vaginally. This includes respiratory illness, atopic conditions, obesity, diabetes and other severe auto-immune diseases. Concern has also been raised over possible impacts on cognitive and neuropsychological development in these children. Often the response has been to dismiss these outcomes as a result of the indication for the CS birth such as antenatal compromise or maternal disease. However the marked increase in non-medical Caesarean delivery throughout many regions of the world has allowed us to better distinguish these contributing factors.

methodsThis narrative review looks at some of the more recent evidence on adverse health and developmental outcomes associated with CS, particularly pre-labour CS and the implications for the long term health of our society.

resultsEpidemiological studies and animal research indicate an increased risk of negative impacts on child physical health and neuro-cognitive development aftercaesarean section delivery, particularly pre-labour Caesarean section, compared with vaginal delivery. This elevated risk persists after correction forobstetric and maternal factors.

conclusionCaesarean section delivery can result in adverse outcomes for infant, maternal and societal wellbeing. Elective Caesarean section, purely to potentially minimise pelvic floor dysfunction, cannot be justified.