Pregnant Women’s Perceptions of Caesarean Section at Madonna Hospital, Umuahia: A Cross-sectional Study on Attitudes and Influencing Factors

Abstract

Cesarean section (CS) is a common surgical intervention used to manage complications during childbirth, yet perceptions about it vary widely among pregnant women. This study explores the perceptions of CS among pregnant women attending Madonna Catholic Hospital, Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed, and data were collected from 385 pregnant women through a structured questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. Results revealed that 82.3% of participants perceived CS as a generally safe procedure, while 85.7% believed it could prevent maternal and child deaths. However, only 26.5% were willing to undergo elective CS if normal vaginal delivery was possible. The major factors influencing perceptions included previous birth experiences, socio-economic status, and cultural beliefs. Despite high knowledge levels about CS, many women expressed concerns about pain, recovery time, and societal stigma. The study concludes that while CS is recognized for its life-saving potential, socio-cultural and personal beliefs significantly shape pregnant women's perceptions and acceptance. It recommends enhanced education and counselling to address misconceptions and improve informed decision-making among expectant mothers in similar healthcare settings.