Awareness, Attitudes and Perception of Antenatal Patients to Caesarean Section: The Jos, Nigeria Experience

Abstract

Background: Caesarean section (CS) rates have been increasing steadily globally. Although caesarean section is becoming increasingly safe, women still have aversion for caesarean section in our environment. Objective: To determine the perception, knowledge and attitude of antenatal clinic (ANC) attendants in Jos University Teaching Hospital towards caesarean section as a mode of delivery. Method: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. A pre-tested structured questionnaire was administered to pregnant women who receive care at the antenatal clinic of the Jos University Teaching Hospital between 1st December 2013 to 31st January 2014. Results: The average age of the respondents was 29.06±6.00 years, while the average income per month was 6786 ± 1053.92 naira. Fifty-five (24.2%) of the respondents did not know any indication for caesarean section while one hundred and seventy-two knew at least one correct indication out of which four (1.8%) knew three correct indications for caesarean section. Caesarean section was considered to be dangerous by 55.1%. The commonest reason given was that the mother could die (47.37%). Vaginal delivery was preferred by 88.5%, 6.20% had no preference while 5.30% preferred caesarean section. The commonest reason given for preference for vaginal delivery was that it is safer (32.34%). Eleven out of 12 respondents that preferred caesarean section preferred it because the stress of labour is eliminated. The commonest reasons for aversion to caesarean section was fear of operation (48.98%), lack of finance (30.61%) and fear of being stigmatized (26.53%). There was statistical significant relationship between income, religion and willingness to undergo caesarean section. Conclusion: There is a high level of awareness of caesarean delivery among ANC attendants at the Jos University Teaching Hospital. Client education is necessary to address some concerns on safety of the operation, indications for the operation, and stigmatisation.