Abstract / Summary
Introduction: Cesarean delivery is the most common surgical procedure in obstetrics, yet preclinical medical students have limited exposure prior to clerkships. Procedural unfamiliarity may contribute to anxiety and decreased confidence during clinical training. Simulation-based education provides a low-risk environment to build foundational knowledge and comfort before direct patient care. We evaluated whether a combined didactic and simulation-based cesarean section curriculum improves procedural comfort and objective knowledge among preclinical medical students. Methods: Preclinical medical students participated in a structured curriculum consisting of a focused didactic lecture followed by hands-on simulation using a low-cost, high-fidelity cesarean section model. Participants completed matched pre- and post-intervention surveys assessing comfort across five cesarean-related domains using a 5-point Likert scale. Objective knowledge was measured using an American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists-based cesarean simulation quiz. Learner expectations and satisfaction were also assessed. Paired t-tests were used to compare pre- and post-intervention outcomes. Results: Baseline comfort was low across domains (mean 1.04–1.78), reflecting minimal prior operative exposure. After the intervention, comfort significantly improved in surgical instrument familiarity, identification of anatomical layers, participation in cesarean delivery, suture selection, and understanding of indications (post-intervention means 2.68–3.86; all p < 0.001). Objective knowledge scores increased from 0.36 ± 0.17 to 0.79 ± 0.13 (p < 0.001). Satisfaction exceeded expectations, increasing from 3.59 ± 1.10 to 4.82 ± 0.39 (p < 0.001). Conclusion/Implications: A combined didactic and simulation-based cesarean section curriculum significantly improves both knowledge and procedural comfort among preclinical learners. Early exposure to operative obstetrics may ease transition into clerkships and enhance readiness for clinical participation. Simulation-based surgical education represents an effective strategy to strengthen foundational obstetric training and may improve engagement in obstetrics and gynecology.