Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health
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Risk factors in childbirth interventions

Approved: 2009

Collaborators:

  • Dr Catherine Chojenta
  • Ms Jennifer Powers
  • Dr Xenia Dolja-Gore
  • Prof Kathleen Fahy
  • Prof Andrew Bisits
  • AProf Alexis Hure
  • Dr Jennifer Stewart Williams
  • Prof Ian Symonds
  • Mrs Ashleigh Baker
  • Ms Lyn Ebert

Synopsis

Few studies have examined differences in birth interventions by area of residence. Data from the 1973-78 cohort were used to examine differences in birth interventions between major cities and more rural and remote areas. Women living in major cities were more likely to have epidural analgesia, and an elective or emergency caesarean, but no more likely to have a prolonged labour. Differences in maternal age and private health insurance explained differences in caesarean section but not differences in epidural analgesia. A paper reporting these findings has been published in Women and Birth.