Improving vaginal birth rates in Illinois hospitals

Supporting Vaginal Birth in Illinois: the Role of Unit Culture

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10914049

This study looks at how the atmosphere in hospitals during labor and delivery in Illinois influences the number of cesarean sections, with the goal of finding ways to encourage more vaginal births and keep mothers and babies safer.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10914049 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the culture within labor and delivery units in Illinois affects the rates of cesarean deliveries. It aims to identify specific cultural factors that contribute to the overuse of cesareans, which can lead to increased risks for both mothers and babies. By understanding these cultural dynamics, the research seeks to promote practices that support vaginal births and reduce unnecessary cesarean sections. The approach includes analyzing hospital practices and attitudes among healthcare providers to foster a supportive environment for vaginal deliveries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are expectant mothers in Illinois who are planning to give birth and are concerned about the risks associated with cesarean deliveries.

Not a fit: Patients who are not planning to give birth in Illinois or those who have medical conditions necessitating a cesarean delivery may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer childbirth experiences for mothers and babies by reducing unnecessary cesarean deliveries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing unit culture can successfully reduce cesarean rates, indicating that this approach has potential for positive outcomes.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.