Perceptions and attitudes of pregnant women towards caesarean section in Ado Local Government Area, Ekiti, Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

Caesarean Section (CS) is a life-saving obstetric surgery, often necessitated to resolve complications of pregnancy. This study investigated the perceptions and attitudes of women of childbearing age in Ado Local Government, Ekiti State, Nigeria, concerning Caesarean section as a delivery option. A quantitative, descriptive research design of survey type was adopted for the study. One hundred and twenty-two pregnant women attending antenatal clinic were randomly selected as study participants. Data for the study were collected using researcher-administered questionnaires. The reliability and validity of the instruments were ascertained. The participants were aware of their rights and responsibilities as study participants. Data were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. The hypotheses formulated were tested at 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed that the study participants have positive perception and attitude towards cesarean. The study indicated no significant relationship between Caesarean section delivery and reproductive failure since the calculated significance value (0.072) was greater (>) than the significance value (0.05). The study also revealed no significant relationship between Caesarean section delivery and death warrant as the calculated significance value (0.067) was greater (>) than the significance value (0.05). Awareness programs on the importance and advantages of Caesarean section should be included in antenatal clinics education and mass media propaganda