According to the Robson classification for cesarean sections (10-group classification), which group comprises the largest contributor to overall cesarean section rates in most high-resource settings?

• A Group 1: Nulliparous, singleton cephalic, ≥37 weeks, in spontaneous labour
• B Group 2: Nulliparous, singleton cephalic, ≥37 weeks, induced or prelabour CS
• C Group 5: Previous CS, singleton cephalic, ≥37 weeks ✓
• D Group 10: Singleton cephalic, <37 weeks (including previous CS)

Explanation

Group 5 in the Robson classification (women with a previous cesarean section, singleton cephalic pregnancy ≥37 weeks) consistently contributes the largest absolute number of cesarean deliveries in settings with high historical CS rates, because of the tendency to offer elective repeat cesarean rather than trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC). This 'cascade effect' means reducing Group 5 CS rates by promoting VBAC is a key strategy to reduce overall institutional CS rates.

Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.