UCSF

Objective

To evaluate the association of patient preferences and attitudes with TOLAC.

Study design

Prospective observational study of TOLAC-eligible women at 26-34 weeks gestation. Preferences (utilities) were elicited using the time trade-off and standard gamble metrics. Logistic regression was used to identify preference- and attitude-based factors associated with TOLAC.

Results

Of the 231 participants, most (n = 197, 85%) preferred vaginal delivery, but only 40% (n = 93) underwent TOLAC. Utilities for uterine rupture outcomes did not differ based on delivery approach. In multivariable analysis, strength of preference for vaginal delivery, value for the experience of labor, and the opinion of the person whom the participant thought of as most important to this decision were associated with TOLAC.

Conclusions

Future decision support interventions incorporating individualized information regarding the likelihood of vaginal birth and empowering patients to express their preferences and engage their families in the decision-making process may improve decision quality and increase TOLAC rates.