Background/Aims: “Gentle” or “natural” cesarean sections are implemented to improve parental satisfaction. The objective of this study was to investigate whether there is a need for adopting such a gentle approach. Methods: We recruited those with low-risk pregnancies scheduled for elective cesarean delivery at term. Three questionnaires were administered to both partners: prior to delivery, 2-5 days after delivery, and 6 weeks postpartum. Questionnaires assessed the couple's expectations, fears, and satisfaction prior to and after cesarean section. Additionally, participants attended 2 structured interviews: one prior to delivery and one 6 weeks after delivery. Results: Fifteen couples underwent a “standard” cesarean section (group 1) and 6 underwent a “gentle” section (group 2). Overall, parental satisfaction with cesarean section was high. However, women in the standard group felt less involved in childbirth and both groups still preferred vaginal delivery in light of eventual future pregnancies. Participants in group 2 showed less fear of childbirth after delivery than prior to delivery. There were no differences in total questionnaire scores between groups or between mothers and partners. Conclusion: This study shows that there is room for improvement in satisfaction levels around cesarean section, even though satisfaction is generally high. A “gentle” cesarean section may help to achieve this.

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Objective  To report the laparoscopic treatment of abdominal wall haematomas and to review the literature spanning 1976–99. Design  Case report and Medline search using Winspirrs as search engine. Report  A 50‐year‐old patient, with a large abdominal wall haematoma following an abdominal hysterectomy by Pfannenstiel incision, was treated by laparoscopy. Following CO2 insufflation and trocar insertion at the umbilicus, the diagnosis of a haematoma was confirmed by the bulging parietal peritoneum. Using an operative laparoscope, the peritoneum was entered close to the umbilicus and a haematoma of 750 ml was aspirated. Thorough examination did not reveal any remaining active bleeding. Clinical recuperation was spectacular and the patient was discharged 2 days later. Review  Abdominal wall haematoma following Pfannenstiel incision is a rare complication, with reported incidences of 5%. The clinical diagnosis can be confirmed by ultrasound and computed tomographic (CT) scan, with sensitivities of 71% and 100%, respectively. Surgical treatment is limited to large haematomas because of secondary wound healing problems. Conclusion  Since the laparoscopic treatment of wall haematomas is so easy and straightforward, we suggest that broadening the indications for surgery can be considered. This could moreover lead to a revision of the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound and CT scan for smaller haematomas.