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Original article

Vol. 155 No. 11 (2025)

Association between a mismatch of maternal/neonatal body size and obstetrical interventions in Switzerland in the 1920s: a cross-sectional study

Cite this as:
Swiss Med Wkly. 2025;155:4546
Published
18.11.2025

Summary

INTRODUCTION: Human childbirth remains a complex and risky process for both mothers and infants, even with modern advancements in medical care. This study investigated the prevalence of obstetric interventions, namely caesarean sections, episiotomies, and forceps deliveries, along with the role of maternal-foetal body size mismatch in influencing delivery outcomes.

METHODS: Utilising two datasets from similar archival sources in two Swiss cities (Basel and Lausanne) from the 1920s, we explored the relevance of a mismatch between the body size of the mother and the foetus as a risk factor for obstetrical interventions and the duration of the expulsion phase during delivery.

RESULTS: Over 91% of births (1290/1407 in Basel and 1062/1145 in Lausanne) featured the foetal head in a normal position (either the right or left occiput anterior position). Episiotomies were performed in 8–17% of cases (233/1407 in Basel and 98/1145 in Lausanne) and forceps deliveries in 1–5% (17/1407 in Basel and 54/1145 in Lausanne). Caesarean sections were rare (<1%, 19/1407 in Basel and 6/1145 in Lausanne). Key findings indicated that larger foetal head diameters and narrower pelvic measurements were linked to prolonged expulsion phases and an increased likelihood of intervention. Abnormal head positions and first-time births were also associated with obstetrical interventions. Additionally, rickets was documented in 2% of mothers (23/1145) in Lausanne, correlating with increased forceps use and caesarean section rates.

CONCLUSION: This research provides insights into obstetric practices and maternal health conditions over a century ago, emphasising the significant impact of maternal-foetal body size mismatches on childbirth complications in a historical context.

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