Cesarean section (CS) remains one of the most frequently performed surgical interventions in obstetric practice, particularly in term gestations. The influence of CS on perinatal outcomes in term pregnancies continues to be a subject of rigorous investigation and academic discourse. Aim. This review evaluates perinatal outcomes associated with cesarean section (CS) in term pregnancies (37 to 42 weeks gestation), with particular focus on comparative maternal and neonatal health parameters. The analysis examines both immediate and longitudinal risks and benefits of CS relative to vaginal delivery. Materials and methods. A systematic examination of scientific literature published within the preceding twenty years was conducted, incorporating clinical studies, cohort analyses, and systematic reviews. Selected investigations met the following criteria: (1) evaluation of term pregnancies (37-42 weeks gestation), (2) comparative assessment of maternal and neonatal outcomes following CS versus vaginal delivery. Data sources included PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. Results. Cesarean delivery in term pregnancies demonstrates association with multiple maternal risks including postoperative infectious morbidity, hemorrhagic complications, and prolonged convalescence periods. Longitudinal data indicate elevated risks for subsequent pregnancy complications such as uterine rupture and placental implantation disorders. Neonates delivered via prelabor CS exhibit increased incidence of respiratory distress syndrome and delayed physiological transition compared to vaginally delivered infants. Importantly, CS retains critical importance in obstetric emergencies including fetal compromise, malpresentation, and placenta previa, where timely intervention prevents severe maternal and perinatal morbidity. Conclusion. While cesarean section constitutes an indispensable component of contemporary obstetric practice, its escalating utilization warrants judicious clinical consideration. Although potentially life-saving in indicated circumstances, the procedure carries substantive risks for both parturient and neonate. Rigorous indication assessment remains paramount to avoid nonessential interventions and optimize perinatal outcomes. Additional investigation is warranted to elucidate long-term consequences across the reproductive lifespan and pediatric development.
Korchynska et al. (2025) studied this question.