Maria Williams
Pronouns: She/her
Research Mentor(s): Melissa Zochowski, Research Program Manager
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Psychiatry and Learning Health Sciences, Michigan Medicine
Presentation Date: Thursday, April 22, 2021
Session: Session 6 (4pm-4:50pm)
Breakout Room: Room 14
Presenter: 6
Abstract
Recent studies in the United States have shown that over one third of birthing women have primary Cesarean sections to deliver their children. C-section poses risk to the mother and her child, and carries a much longer recovery time than a vaginal delivery. In many cases, a birth is considered NTSV (Nulliparous, Term, Singleton, Vertex), or low-risk, and a c-section is given despite a lack of medical indication. The United States has one of the highest incidences of NTSV c-sections in the western hemisphere. In this study, we are interested in examining the non-clinical and social factors that may influence c-section rates and interventions among the NTSV or low-risk population. To do this, we collected data from all fifty states on births, c-sections, health collaboratives, and demographics, and compiled it into a database to make statistical analysis on each factor. When comparing the states, we found that the access to information differed greatly depending on the state being studied. With these findings, we hope to then go further to identify specific nonclinical factors that influence c-section rates within each state. These conclusions will then inform improvements in obstetric healthcare practices that can aid the reduction of NTSV c-sections in the United States.
Authors: Maria Williams, Megan Corbe, Melissa Zochowski
Research Method: Library/Archival/Internet Research
