The Effects of Fetal Gender on Indications of Cesarean Section

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of fetal gender to indications of cesarean section (C-section). Clinical and demographical data of 5858 (53.3%) women carrying male fetuses (group 1) and 5132 (46.7%) women carrying female fetuses (group 2) were screened retrospectively. Demographic data, neonatal complications and C-section indications were used to compare the participants according to fetal gender. Median gestational age at delivery was 38 (24-41) weeks in group 1 and 39 (24-41) weeks in group 2. Mean birthweight was determined 3193 ±796.9 in group 1 and 3063 ± 744 in group 2. These differences were determined statistically significant too (p<0.001 and p<0.001 respectively).  Similarly, frequencies of macrosomia, preterm birth and NICU admission were determined statistically higher in Group 1 (p=0.05, p<0.001 and p<0.001). Severe intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and failure to progress during labor relative risks were determined significantly lower in Group 1 ( RR 0.95 (0.88-1.22) and RR 0.85 (0.75-0.97)), and suspected macrosomia relative risk was found statistically higher in group 1 (cRR 1.59 (1.40-1.80), ARR 1.14 (1.12-1.16)). Male gender has an effect on the C-section rate, but most C-section indications are not affected by fetal gender. Further studies are currently required in order to determine the relation between C-section indications and fetal gender.