A root cause analysis of increasing caesarean section rates in a tertiary care private hospital in North India

ABSTRACT

Background: Increase in the incidence of caesarean section is a matter of concern worldwide. Robson’s criteria which is universally accepted now as a way for calculating caesarean rates takes into account only the obstetrical consideration, however, it is noteworthy that many socioeconomic and cultural factors also have a role to play. This study takes into account both Robson’s criteria and common socio-cultural factors which lead to increased caesarean rates with an attempt to suggest ways to curtail this trend.Methods: The study was a hospital based cross-sectional study at a private tertiary care hospital in New Delhi. 1200 consecutive live births after 34 weeks of gestation were analysed over a period of one year.Results: LSCS was the most common mode of delivery 733 (61.1%). 329 (27.4%) had induced labour of which 260 (76.2%) had LSCS. 333 women had elective LSCS. Rates of CDMR were 185 (25.2%) which is very significant. As per Robson’s criteria maximum number of women (318) were in group 2, of which 226 (71.1%) underwent caesarean section.Conclusions: High caesarean rates can be attributed to a multitude of factors. Robson’s criteria are an effective way for analysis of obstetric indications. Other added factors include comorbidities, CDMR, fear of litigations, etc which were analysed.