Rupture of the uterus in Durban in in the new millenium: why is it still happening?

This was an audit of the number of cases of uterine rupture that occurred hospital, in a large metropolitan setting. The audit showed that uterine ruptures are more likely to occur in women with 1 previous caesarean section undergoing vaginal birth after caesarean section (VBAC) than in women with unscarred uterine. In addition, both the perinatal and maternal mortality was high in women with ruptured uterine. This audit sends the message that great attention must be given to women undergoing vaginal birth after caesarean section. The factors that need to be taken into account are staffing – both medical and nursing, the indications for previous caesarean section, the parity of the patient and the need to counsel the patient intensively about the pros and cons of VBAC. Obstetrics & Gynaecology Forum Vol. 17 (3) 2007: pp. 79-8