Cesarean risk calculator rollout during labor induction
Official title: IC-CSRisk Study: Implementation of Calculated Cesarean Section Risk during labor induction, a multi-site stepped-wedge randomized rollout trial
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11563749 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A multi-site plan to use a calculated cesarean risk score during labor induction to help clinicians and patients make more objective decisions and reduce disparities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 22, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,525,230 |
| NIH project number | 4R01HD113618-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11563749 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Pregnant people undergoing labor induction at participating birth units.
✕Less likely to help
Patients at sites not adopting the calculator or not followed by the implementation may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project will roll out a cesarean risk calculator at many birth units across the US to guide decisions during labor induction. It builds on a previously tested model that provides an individualized cesarean risk percentage, aiming to standardize care and reduce maternal morbidity. The team will study how best to implement the calculator in diverse settings and how it affects outcomes for all patients, especially Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. The study uses mixed methods to understand why and how the tool works in real-world practice. The goal is to improve obstetric outcomes through clearer, data-driven decision-making.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the rollout could lower cesarean rates and maternal complications, particularly for historically underserved patient groups.
How similar studies have gone: Previous single-site work suggested the calculator can reduce cesarean rates and improve maternal outcomes.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hamm, Rebecca Feldman — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Hamm, Rebecca Feldman
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Calculating cesarean section risk during labor induction
This study is looking at a new tool that helps doctors predict the chances of needing a cesarean delivery for women who are being induced for labor, with the goal of making the birthing experience better for everyone, especially those from underserved communities.
-
Effects of massage and exercises on cesarean scar and recovery
This study tests whether direct scar massage or indirect massage plus exercise helps people recover after a cesarean birth and reduces scar-related pain.
-
Reflexology and hand massage after cesarean section
This study tests whether reflexology hand massage or stroking hand massage can reduce anxiety and increase satisfaction, and how they affect heart/blood pressure after cesarean delivery.
-
Health education to see if primigravida women choose vaginal delivery more often
A health education program is being tested to see if it helps first-time pregnant women in choosing vaginal delivery over unnecessary cesareans.
-
Enhanced Recovery Adherence and Recovery Quality After Cesarean Delivery
This study tests whether following enhanced recovery after cesarean delivery protocols is linked with better recovery quality in women having a planned cesarean with spinal anesthesia.
-
Predictors of severe pain within 24 hours after cesarean delivery with spinal anesthesia
This study will look at which pre-, intra-, and post-operative factors are linked to severe pain in the first 24 hours after an elective cesarean done with spinal anesthesia.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.