Self-Preferred Route of Delivery of Thai Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

BACKGROUND: The attitude of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (OB-GYNs) towards performing cesarean delivery on maternal request (CDMR) together with their preferred route of delivery for themselves or their wives is considered as important responsible factors of increasing cesarean delivery. OBJECTIVE: To assess the attitudes of Thai Obstetricians and Gynecologists with regard to their self-preferred route of delivery, willingness to perform cesarean delivery on maternal request, and associated factors. MATERIAL AND METHOD: From July 1, 2013 to September 30, 2013, a cross-sectional study was carried out of 1,950 members of The Royal Thai College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists who were randomized before being sent mailed questionnaires. The questionnaires requested details of the OB-GYNs' demographic data and asked about their self-preferred route of delivery for themselves or their wives (in the case of male doctors) and their willingness to perform cesarean delivery on maternal request (CDMR). The questionnaires were returned via mail. RESULTS: Three hundred and seventy OB-GYNs (18.9%) completed and returned the questionnaires via mail. In a scenario of uncomplicated singleton cephalic presentation pregnancy at term, vaginal delivery was chosen as the most preferred route of delivery (68.9%). The significant associated factors for preferred cesarean delivery were male, age < 40 years, experience in practice as OB-GYN < 10 years and prior cesarean delivery. Many (53.2%) were willing to perform cesarean delivery on maternal request. CONCLUSION: Most Thai Obstetricians and Gynecologists (68.9%) preferred vaginal delivery for themselves or their wives, but many (53.2%) were willing to perform cesarean delivery on maternal request.