PERCEPTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF CAESAREAN SECTION AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN

ABSTRACT

Caesarean section a surgical procedure by which a baby is delivered through an incision on the abdominal wall and uterus of the mother. It is one of the most frequently performed obstetric surgical operations globally. The aim of this study is to assess the perception and acceptance of women attending antenatal clinic towards caesarean section at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital. The study used a quantitative, descriptive survey design in which self-administered questionnaires were distributed to a sample of 170 pregnant women. With the aid of SPSS version 26, data were analyzed using a descriptive statistic. Convenience sampling was used in this study. The data collected were on socio-demographic data of the women and also on their knowledge and perception towards caesarean section. Findings shows that highest proportion of 69 (44.2%) were within the age group of 25-29 years which means they were in their reproductive age. On knowledge about caesarean section, Findings indicate that while the majority of respondents exhibit good knowledge (58.3%) about Caesarean section, only 45% hold a positive perception towards it, with 55% expressing negativity. Various factors affecting Caesarean section acceptance were identified, including inadequate information, financial constraints, fear of surgery-related complications, and spousal preferences for vaginal delivery. Marital status and ethnicity significantly influenced cesarean section perception among women studied, with other factors showing mixed effects. Chi-square tests confirmed a significant relationship between knowledge level and acceptance of cesarean section (χ² = 0.596, df = 1, p = 0.040). In conclusion, although a considerable proportion of women demonstrated awareness of Caesarean section and its potential consequences, misconceptions and barriers persist. The study therefore recommends the need to enhance antenatal education programs, develop and implement comprehensive antenatal education programs that focus on providing detailed and unbiased information about Cesarean section.