Cesarean delivery rates using Robson classification system in Ireland: What can we learn?

It has been proposed that the Robson Ten-Group Classification System be used as a global standard for assessing, monitoring and comparing cesarean delivery (CD) rates within and between maternity services. Our objective was to compare the change of CD rates within the 10-Group Classification System in our institution over 10 years. From 2005–2014 inclusive data was collected prospectively and all women were classified using the obstetric concepts and parameters described in the Ten-Group Classification System. Linear regression and weighted Least Squares regression analyses were used to analyze trends over time. During 2005–2014 inclusive, 88,004 mothers delivered 89,649 babies ≥500 g. Over the 10 year period there was an increase in CD rate from 18.3% to 23.5%, with a linear increase in CD rate by 0.6% annually (95% CI:0.52, 0.75;p