Newborns delivered by which method are more likely to develop transient tachypnea of the newborn?

Newborns delivered via cesarean section (C-section) are more likely to develop transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) primarily due to the absence of the physiological stress that occurs during vaginal delivery. Vaginal births involve a squeeze through the birth canal, which helps to clear fluid from the infant's lungs and prepare the respiratory system for breathing air. In contrast, during a C-section, especially if it is performed before labor has begun, this important fluid clearance may not occur as effectively. Consequently, the retained fluid in the lungs can lead to difficulties with gas exchange and result in tachypnea, or rapid breathing.

Additionally, TTN is often associated with newborns who are born prematurely or those who experience a delayed onset of respiratory adaptation due to various factors, including maternal medications or controlled delivery environments. In the case of C-sections, the likelihood of these conditions can be heightened compared to other delivery methods that promote more natural respiratory adaptations in the newborn. This explains why cesarean delivery poses a higher risk for TTN in newborns compared to induction, vacuum delivery, or forceps delivery methods.