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ASSESSMENT OF CESAREAN SECTION AND ITS EFFECT ON THE POSTPARTUM HEALTH OF MOTHERS AFTER 12 WEEKS OF DELIVERY IN  FAITH MEDIPLEX HOSPITAL, EDO STATE

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of cesarean sections on postpartum health outcomes using a quantitative survey research design. A structured questionnaire was administered to a sample of 120 respondents, focusing on factors such as physical health, psychological well-being, maternal-infant bonding, and breastfeeding initiation. Hypotheses were tested using t-tests to compare outcomes between mothers who underwent cesarean sections and those who had vaginal deliveries. The findings revealed significant differences in physical health outcomes, with mothers who underwent cesarean sections reporting poorer recovery processes compared to those who had vaginal deliveries. Similarly, mothers who had cesarean sections reported higher levels of psychological distress, including anxiety and stress, during the postpartum period. Additionally, cesarean sections were associated with challenges in maternal-infant bonding and breastfeeding initiation, highlighting the need for targeted support and interventions for affected mothers. In conclusion, this study underscores the significant impact of cesarean sections on postpartum health outcomes, emphasizing the importance of tailored support for mothers during the recovery process. Recommendations included the development of comprehensive postpartum support programs, education and counseling initiatives, and promoting skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding practices. Additionally, mental health screening protocols, access to physical rehabilitation programs, and the establishment of peer support networks were recommended to address the diverse needs of mothers following cesarean sections. Moving forward, further research and collaborative efforts are warranted to enhance postpartum care and improve outcomes for mothers and their infants.

 

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1       Background to the Study

Cesarean section (C-section) rates have been steadily rising globally over the past few decades, becoming one of the most common surgical procedures performed on women during childbirth (Mascarello et al., 2017). This increase in cesarean deliveries reflects evolving practices in obstetric care and changes in maternal preferences and healthcare policies. While cesarean section can be life-saving for both the mother and the baby in certain circumstances, its escalating prevalence has raised concerns regarding its potential impact on maternal postpartum health (Bağcı & Altuntuğ, 2022). With cesarean delivery becoming more prevalent, there is a growing need to understand its implications for maternal health outcomes during the critical postpartum period.

The postpartum period, defined as the first 12 weeks after childbirth, is a crucial time for maternal recovery and adjustment to motherhood (Erçel & Süt, 2020). During this period, mothers undergo significant physiological and psychological changes as they adapt to the demands of caring for a newborn (Rossier et al., 2023). Understanding the effects of cesarean section on postpartum health is essential for optimizing maternal care and improving outcomes for both mothers and their newborns (Pınar et al., 2019). Factors such as postpartum physical symptoms, psychological well-being, maternal-infant bonding, and breastfeeding initiation are important indicators of maternal health during this period (Puritz et al., 2022).

Research has shown that cesarean section may be associated with increased maternal complications and longer recovery times compared to vaginal delivery (Karabel et al., 2017). Women who undergo cesarean section may experience more pain, discomfort, and mobility issues during the postpartum period (Hailu et al., 2022). Additionally, cesarean delivery has been linked to higher rates of postpartum infections and wound complications, which can further exacerbate maternal morbidity (Brousseau et al., 2018). These findings underscore the importance of closely monitoring maternal health following cesarean section to identify and address potential complications.

Psychological well-being is another crucial aspect of postpartum health that may be affected by cesarean delivery (Negron et al., 2023). Women who undergo cesarean section may experience higher levels of anxiety, depression, and stress compared to those who have vaginal deliveries (Erbaş, 2022). The surgical experience and recovery process associated with cesarean delivery can contribute to feelings of loss of control, disappointment, and fear of future pregnancies (Rossier et al., 2023). These psychological stressors can impact maternal bonding with the newborn and interfere with the establishment of breastfeeding (Mermer et al., 2020).

Maternal-infant bonding and breastfeeding initiation are critical components of postpartum health that may be influenced by the mode of delivery (Amanak & Karaçam, 2018). Mothers who undergo cesarean section may face challenges in establishing early skin-to-skin contact and initiating breastfeeding due to factors such as anesthesia, pain medication, and mobility restrictions (Balkaya et al., 2022). Delayed maternal-infant bonding and breastfeeding initiation have been associated with adverse outcomes for both mothers and their newborns, including decreased breastfeeding success and increased risk of postpartum depression (Vural & Şentürk, 2017). Therefore, interventions aimed at promoting maternal-infant bonding and breastfeeding should be prioritized for women who undergo cesarean section.

In essence, cesarean section rates have been increasing globally, raising concerns about their potential impact on maternal postpartum health. The postpartum period is a critical time for maternal recovery and adjustment to motherhood, and understanding the effects of cesarean section on postpartum health is essential for optimizing maternal care and improving outcomes for both mothers and their newborns. Research indicates that cesarean delivery may be associated with increased maternal complications, longer recovery times, and higher levels of psychological distress compared to vaginal delivery. Additionally, cesarean section can pose challenges for maternal-infant bonding and breastfeeding initiation. Therefore, healthcare providers should closely monitor women who undergo cesarean section during the postpartum period and provide appropriate support and interventions to promote maternal well-being and ensure positive outcomes for both mothers and their newborns.

1.2       Statement of Problem

The rising global rates of cesarean section (C-section) deliveries have raised concerns regarding their potential impact on maternal postpartum health. While cesarean deliveries are often necessary and life-saving interventions, their increasing prevalence has led to a gap in understanding the long-term effects on maternal well-being during the postpartum period. Existing research has identified associations between cesarean section and adverse outcomes such as increased maternal complications, prolonged recovery times, and challenges with breastfeeding initiation (Mascarello et al., 2017). However, there remains a need for further investigation to elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying these associations and identify effective interventions to mitigate potential risks.

One of the key gaps in the current literature is the lack of comprehensive understanding of the psychological impact of cesarean section on maternal well-being during the postpartum period (Erbaş, 2022). While some studies have suggested higher levels of anxiety, depression, and stress among women who undergo cesarean deliveries compared to those who have vaginal births (Negron et al., 2023), the underlying factors contributing to these psychological distresses remain poorly understood. Additionally, there is limited research exploring the potential role of sociodemographic factors, such as socioeconomic status and social support, in moderating the psychological effects of cesarean section on maternal postpartum health (Mermer et al., 2020).

Furthermore, while cesarean delivery has been associated with challenges in maternal-infant bonding and breastfeeding initiation, the mechanisms driving these associations are not fully understood (Amanak & Karaçam, 2018). There is a need for more research to explore the specific barriers and facilitators to successful bonding and breastfeeding among women who undergo cesarean section, as well as interventions to promote optimal maternal-infant interactions and breastfeeding outcomes. Additionally, there is limited research examining the long-term consequences of cesarean section on maternal health beyond the immediate postpartum period, highlighting the need for longitudinal studies to assess the lasting effects on maternal well-being and quality of life (VanderKruik et al., 2017).

1.3       Objectives of the Study

1. To assess the physical health status of mothers who underwent cesarean section compared to those who had vaginal deliveries at 12 weeks postpartum in Faith Mediplex Hospital, Edo State .
2. To examine the psychological well-being of mothers following cesarean section versus vaginal delivery after 12 weeks postpartum in Faith Mediplex Hospital, Edo State .
3. To evaluate the impact of cesarean section on maternal-infant bonding and breastfeeding initiation at 12 weeks postpartum in Faith Mediplex Hospital, Edo State .

1.4       Research Questions

1. How does the physical health status of mothers differ between those who underwent cesarean section and those who had vaginal deliveries at 12 weeks postpartum in Faith Mediplex Hospital, Edo State?
2. What are the psychological implications for mothers following cesarean section compared to vaginal delivery after 12 weeks postpartum in Faith Mediplex Hospital, Edo State?
3. What is the effect of cesarean section on maternal-infant bonding and breastfeeding initiation at 12 weeks postpartum in Faith Mediplex Hospital, Edo State?

1.5       Research Hypotheses

1. Mothers who underwent cesarean section will not experience poorer physical health outcomes compared to those who had vaginal deliveries at 12 weeks postpartum in Faith Mediplex Hospital, Edo State.
2. Mothers who underwent cesarean section will not report higher levels of psychological distress compared to those who had vaginal deliveries after 12 weeks postpartum in Faith Mediplex Hospital, Edo State  .
3. Cesarean section will positively impact maternal-infant bonding and breastfeeding initiation at 12 weeks postpartum in Faith Mediplex Hospital, Edo State .

1.6       Significance of the Study

This study holds significance for multiple reasons. Primarily, it will augment the existing understanding of the enduring implications of cesarean section on maternal health outcomes throughout the pivotal postpartum period. Through the identification of potential areas of concern, healthcare providers can devise tailored interventions to bolster support for women who have undergone cesarean deliveries. These interventions may encompass strategies to alleviate postoperative complications, address psychological distress, and enhance maternal-infant bonding and breastfeeding initiation. By pinpointing specific challenges faced by women following cesarean section, healthcare professionals can tailor their care approaches to meet individual needs, thereby fostering improved postpartum experiences and outcomes.

Furthermore, the findings from this study have the potential to inform the development of clinical practice guidelines and healthcare policies geared towards optimizing maternal care during the postpartum period. Insights garnered from an in-depth exploration of the long-term effects of cesarean section on maternal health can serve as a foundational basis for the establishment of evidence-based protocols and standards of care. These guidelines may encompass recommendations for postoperative monitoring, pain management strategies, psychological support services, and breastfeeding promotion initiatives. By integrating the findings into clinical practice guidelines, healthcare providers can ensure consistency and efficacy in the provision of care for women who have undergone cesarean deliveries across diverse healthcare settings.

Moreover, the implications of this study extend beyond clinical practice to encompass broader healthcare policies aimed at improving postpartum outcomes on a systemic level. The integration of research findings into healthcare policies can facilitate the implementation of systemic changes designed to address the multifaceted needs of postpartum women who have undergone cesarean section. This may include initiatives to enhance access to comprehensive postpartum care services, promote continuity of care through interdisciplinary collaboration, and advocate for the adoption of evidence-based practices in maternity care settings. By aligning healthcare policies with the latest research findings, policymakers can contribute to the enhancement of maternal health outcomes and the promotion of maternal well-being on a population-wide scale.

1.7       Scope of the Study

This study focuses on assessing the postpartum health of mothers who underwent cesarean section compared to those who had vaginal deliveries, specifically at 12 weeks postpartum in Faith Mediplex Hospital, Edo State  . It will examine physical health status, psychological well-being, maternal-infant bonding, and breastfeeding initiation as key outcome measures. The study will be conducted in a single center, with a sample of postpartum women recruited from the obstetrics department of XYZ Hospital.

1.8       Operational Definition of Terms

Cesarean Section: Surgical delivery of a baby through incisions in the mother’s abdomen and uterus.

Postpartum Health: The physical, psychological, and social well-being of mothers during the period following childbirth.

Vaginal Delivery: The natural delivery of a baby through the birth canal.

Physical Health Status: Refers to the overall physical well-being of individuals, including factors such as pain, mobility, and recovery.

Psychological Well-being: The emotional and mental state of individuals, encompassing factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression.

Maternal-Infant Bonding: The emotional connection and attachment between a mother and her newborn infant.

Breastfeeding Initiation: The initiation of breastfeeding, including the establishment of latch and milk production, within the first hours/days after childbirth.

Obstetrics Department: The department within a hospital or healthcare facility specializing in the care of pregnant women, childbirth, and postpartum care.