Publication:

Knowledge and decision making in the choice between caesarean section and vaginal delivery

Background The decision-making process regarding the choice between caesarean section (CS) and normal vaginal delivery (NVD) is influenced by various socio-demographic, cultural, and healthcare factors. This study aims to explore these factors among antenatal patients in Bangladesh.

Methods This prospective observational study was conducted at the institute of child and mother health, Matuail, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from January 2023 to June 2023. A total of 200 antenatal patients attending the antenatal care (ANC) clinic were included. Data were collected through structured interviews and medical record reviews, focusing on socio-demographic variables, healthcare access, cultural influences, and perceived safety regarding delivery methods. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression.

Result The majority of participants were aged 21-30 years (68%), predominantly Muslim (93.5%), and from urban areas (62%). Most were homemakers (75%) with secondary (37.5%) or higher secondary education (28%). Economic status showed 78.5% had a monthly income of 10,001-50,000 BDT. Early marriage (≤18 years) was prevalent (44.5%), with 31% having their first pregnancy at or before 18 years. Most pregnancies were planned (80.5%) and spontaneous (89%), with 88% receiving regular antenatal care. Decision-making for delivery methods involved relatives alone (21%) and husbands alone (19%), with 78% preferring NVD and 22% preferring CS.

Conclusion The study reveals that socio-demographic and cultural factors significantly influence delivery method preferences among pregnant women in Bangladesh. There is a need for educational interventions to promote informed decision-making and enhance maternal healthcare services.