Conclusions

The findings of this study reinforce that a prior CD is associated with an increased risk of subsequent stillbirth, with the greatest risk for subsequent intrapartum stillbirth in women who had a previous pre-labour CD. The association could be explained, to some extent, by underlying maternal and intrapartum conditions. These findings might help women and health care providers to reach optimal decisions regarding mode of delivery. Considering the important public health consequences of stillbirth, further large-scale studies are needed to confirm findings of the present study, particularly to evaluate the association between VBAC and intrapartum stillbirth, as this will strengthen the current recommendations for the management of pregnancy following CD.