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ATTITUDE OF PREGNANT WOMEN ATTENDING ANTENATAL CLINIC AT IRRUA SPECIALIST TEACHING HOSPITAL IRRUA EDO STATE TOWARDS CAESARIAN SECTION

Abstract

This study examined the attitude of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo State, towards Caesarean section (CS). A quantitative survey research design was adopted for the study, and data was collected using a structured questionnaire from a sample of 133 respondents. The questionnaire was divided into sections addressing demographic information, attitudes towards CS, level of knowledge about CS, and factors influencing attitudes towards the procedure. The collected data was analyzed using frequency tables, simple percentages, mean and standard deviation, while t-test was applied to test the stated hypotheses. The findings revealed that a majority of the respondents (63.2%) had a positive attitude towards CS, indicating that they believed it to be a safe and reliable method of delivery. However, a significant proportion of women expressed a preference for vaginal delivery, even when CS was medically recommended. The study also showed that most of the respondents were informed about the risks and procedure of CS, though a gap in the provision of adequate information by healthcare providers was identified, with only 16.5% reporting having received sufficient information during antenatal visits. Additionally, cultural and family beliefs were found to significantly influence women’s opinions about CS, with 72.9% agreeing that these factors shaped their views on the delivery method. The t-test results confirmed that there were significant relationships between the factors influencing attitudes and the decision-making process regarding CS. It was concluded that while pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital generally had a favorable view of Caesarean sections, there were concerns regarding the adequacy of information provided by healthcare providers and the influence of cultural beliefs. Based on the findings, the study recommended that healthcare providers improve communication with pregnant women by providing comprehensive information about CS and addressing cultural beliefs that may affect decision-making. Additionally, the importance of involving partners and family members in antenatal education was emphasized to help mitigate the influence of cultural norms. Finally, the study suggested further research in diverse settings to better understand the factors influencing attitudes towards CS across different regions of Nigeria.

 

 

 

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

The mode of childbirth, whether through vaginal delivery or cesarean section (CS), has significant implications for the health and well-being of both mother and child. Cesarean section is a surgical procedure that is recommended when vaginal delivery poses risks to either the mother or the baby, often due to medical complications such as fetal distress, maternal health issues, or prolonged labor. Globally, cesarean section rates have been increasing, especially in developing countries, due to advances in medical technology, improved maternal care, and the ability to better manage complicated deliveries. However, perceptions surrounding cesarean sections vary widely across cultures, societies, and communities, often impacting women’s attitudes towards the procedure.

In Nigeria, the acceptance of cesarean sections has been influenced by various cultural, religious, and socio-economic factors. Many Nigerian women prefer vaginal delivery, seeing it as a natural and safer mode of delivery. This preference is often fueled by societal beliefs that cesarean sections are indicative of weakness, lack of resilience, or even personal failure. In some cases, women view cesarean sections as a last resort, to be avoided unless absolutely necessary. These attitudes can hinder the decision-making process when a cesarean section is recommended, leading to delayed consent and potential complications.

At Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital in Edo State, the issue of pregnant women’s attitudes towards cesarean sections is of particular interest due to the hospital’s role as a referral center for high-risk pregnancies in the region. The hospital provides comprehensive antenatal care services, including counseling and education on delivery options. Understanding the attitude of pregnant women towards cesarean sections in this context can shed light on the factors influencing their decision-making and help inform strategies for enhancing acceptance of cesarean sections where medically indicated. This study seeks to examine these attitudes, assess levels of knowledge and awareness about cesarean sections, and identify the factors shaping pregnant women’s perspectives.

1.2 Statement of Problem

Cesarean sections are critical medical interventions that can save lives in situations where complications arise during childbirth. Despite the benefits, a significant number of pregnant women in Nigeria, including those attending antenatal care at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, remain hesitant about the procedure. This reluctance may stem from a lack of awareness, cultural beliefs, fear of surgical risks, or perceived social stigma. When a cesarean section is medically advised but delayed or refused, the result can be adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Previous studies have shown that attitudes towards cesarean sections in Nigeria are generally negative, with many women viewing it as undesirable compared to vaginal delivery. These attitudes often impact women’s decisions during labor and delivery, influencing whether they consent to the procedure when it is needed. However, limited research has been conducted specifically on the attitudes of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at tertiary hospitals such as Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital. By exploring these attitudes and the factors that influence them, this study aims to fill a gap in understanding and contribute to the body of knowledge needed to improve maternal health outcomes.

1.3 Purpose of the Study

The purpose of this study is to explore the attitudes of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital towards cesarean section. Specifically, the study aims to:

1. Examine the attitudes of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital towards cesarean section.
2. Assess the level of knowledge and awareness of cesarean sections among pregnant women.
3. Identify the factors influencing pregnant women’s attitudes towards cesarean sections.

1.4 Research Questions

The study seeks to answer the following research questions:

1. What is the attitude of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital towards cesarean sections?
2. What is the level of knowledge and awareness of cesarean sections among pregnant women attending antenatal care?
3. What are the factors that influence pregnant women’s attitudes towards cesarean sections at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

The following hypotheses will guide the study:

1. There is no significant relationship between the level of knowledge and awareness of cesarean sections and the attitude of pregnant women towards the procedure.
2. Cultural beliefs and socio-economic factors do not significantly influence the attitudes of pregnant women towards cesarean sections.
3. The level of education of pregnant women does not significantly affect their attitude towards cesarean sections.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study holds significance for several groups:

1. Healthcare Providers: The findings will help healthcare providers understand the beliefs and attitudes that pregnant women hold towards cesarean sections. This can inform strategies for counseling, educating, and supporting women in making informed choices about their delivery options, ultimately contributing to better maternal and child health outcomes.
2. Pregnant Women and Their Families: The study will provide insights into the factors that shape women’s perspectives on cesarean sections, helping pregnant women and their families better understand the importance of cesarean sections when medically indicated. Improved knowledge can empower women to make informed decisions about their health and the health of their unborn child.
3. Policy Makers and Health Administrators: By highlighting the attitudes and challenges pregnant women face regarding cesarean sections, the study can guide policy development focused on maternal health. Health administrators can use the insights to improve antenatal care services, particularly regarding counseling and education on childbirth options.
4. Researchers: The study will contribute to the body of knowledge on maternal health, particularly in the context of developing countries like Nigeria. It can serve as a reference point for future research on maternal attitudes towards delivery options in similar cultural settings.

1.7 Scope of the Study

This study examines three main variables: the attitudes of pregnant women toward cesarean sections, their level of knowledge and awareness of the procedure, and the factors influencing these attitudes. The study is conducted at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, located in Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria. The population of the study consists of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at this hospital, with no inclusion of women from other healthcare facilities or regions, nor those who are not currently attending antenatal care.

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

1. Attitude: In this study, attitude refers to the perception, opinion, or mindset that pregnant women have towards cesarean sections, which can be positive, negative, or neutral.
2. Pregnant Women: This term refers to women who are expecting a child and are in various stages of pregnancy, attending antenatal care services at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital.
3. Antenatal Care: Healthcare services provided to pregnant women to monitor their health and the development of the fetus. It includes routine check-ups, counseling, and education on childbirth options.
4. Cesarean Section (CS): A surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions made in the mother’s abdomen and uterus, often recommended when complications make vaginal delivery unsafe.
5. Knowledge and Awareness: The level of information and understanding that pregnant women have about cesarean sections, including indications, risks, benefits, and procedures involved.
6. Cultural Beliefs: Traditional views and practices related to childbirth that influence pregnant women’s perceptions and acceptance of cesarean sections.
7. Socio-Economic Factors: Economic and social variables such as income, education, and occupation that may impact the attitudes of pregnant women towards cesarean sections.
8. Influencing Factors: The various elements, including knowledge, cultural beliefs, socio-economic status, and previous experiences, that shape pregnant women’s attitudes towards cesarean sections.