About The Calculator
The IC-CS Risk Calculator, or Implementation of Calculated Cesarean Section Risk, is a tool designed to assess the likelihood of cesarean delivery at the onset of labor induction. By combining key factors that influence labor outcomes, the calculator supports informed decision-making and improves communication between patients and clinicians.
Calculator Components
The IC-CS Risk Calculator evaluates five key variables significantly associated with cesarean delivery:
- Nulliparity (whether this is the first pregnancy)
- Gestational age (≥40 weeks)
- Body mass index (BMI) at delivery
- Modified Bishop score (measuring cervical readiness for labor)
- Height
These variables provide a comprehensive risk assessment tailored to each patient’s unique profile.
Eligibility Criteria 
To ensure accuracy, the IC-CS Risk Calculator applies specific criteria for its use, focusing on patients undergoing induction of labor who meet certain characteristics:
- Undergoing IOL from starting dilation ≥2 cm
- Singleton pregnancy at term (≥37 weeks)
- Intact membranes
- No prior cesarean
What Does IC-CS Risk Add?
The IC-CS Risk Calculator was developed using data from a large randomized trial on induction methods (n=491) conducted between 2013-2015 and further refined with additional inductions (n=364) from the same institution during that time. This robust data foundation enhances the reliability of the tool, making it a valuable resource for clinicians and patients navigating labor induction decisions.
Single-Site Pre- and Post-Implementation
Studies from a single-site implementation of the IC-CS Risk Calculator demonstrate its significant impact on labor and delivery outcomes. Its use has been associated with:
- Reduced cesarean delivery rates
- Lower maternal morbidity
- Improved patient satisfaction with the birth experience
By integrating this tool into standard care, healthcare providers can enhance outcomes while fostering patient-centered care.
How Is The Calculator Effective?
The IC-CS Risk Calculator is designed for use at the beginning of labor induction to guide clinicians and patients throughout the labor process. By offering a personalized assessment of cesarean risk, the calculator helps set realistic expectations and facilitates objective decision-making, particularly for patients identified as being at low or high risk for cesarean delivery.
Additionally, incorporating standardized counseling scripts alongside the calculator has been shown to mitigate racial disparities in birth satisfaction, further enhancing its value as a tool for equitable and effective care.
