Timing of Consent for Cesarean Delivery in Pregnancy

This trial explores the optimal timing for obtaining consent from pregnant patients for a possible cesarean delivery. Some hospitals request consent upon patient arrival, while others wait until a cesarean becomes necessary. Participants are divided into two groups: one provides early surgical consent upon arrival, and the other gives consent only if medically needed later. The researchers seek pregnant women between 34 and 41 weeks along, receiving care at specific Duke clinics, and planning to be induced for labor. Participants will share their views on the consent process and their overall childbirth experience. As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to contribute to important research that could enhance the childbirth experience for future mothers.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It focuses on the timing of consent for cesarean delivery and does not mention any changes to medication use.

This study examines the timing of consent for a cesarean delivery, rather than testing a new drug or surgery. As it involves no medical procedures or medications, there are no safety concerns related to the treatment itself. The study investigates whether asking for consent earlier or only when a cesarean is needed is preferable. Both options include discussing and signing a standard hospital form about a cesarean delivery. Since the study only alters the timing of consent, participants face no safety risks.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores when surgical consent for a possible cesarean delivery should be obtained during labor. Unlike the traditional approach, where consent is typically obtained only if a cesarean becomes necessary, this study looks at giving consent early, right when labor is induced. This could potentially streamline the process, reduce stress for expectant mothers, and provide more time for informed decision-making. By comparing early consent to the usual practice, researchers hope to discover which method better supports patient care and decision-making during labor.

This study does not test the effectiveness of a new treatment. Instead, it aims to determine the best time to discuss obtaining patient consent for a possible cesarean delivery (C-section) during childbirth. Participants will be randomized into two groups: one group will provide surgical consent for a possible C-section upon arrival for labor induction, while the other group will give consent only if a C-section becomes clinically indicated during labor. Research on labor induction shows mixed results regarding its impact on C-section rates. Some studies suggest that inducing labor might reduce the need for a C-section, while others indicate it might not significantly affect the outcome. This study does not alter the medical care received; it only changes the timing of the consent discussion for a possible C-section. The goal is to enhance the childbirth experience by identifying the optimal time for this conversation.¹²⁴⁶⁷