Background:
Caesarean section is
life-saving, but rising rates are a cause for concern.
Perceptions surrounding caesarean delivery may
play a significant
role in the
shared-
decision making process. Objective of this study was to explore the
perceptions of
caesarean section among antenatal, postnatal
women and
healthcare providers in a rural
maternity hospital in Ramanagara district, Karnataka.
Methods:
Qualitative research methodology was adopted to explore
perceptions regarding preferred birthing mode, caesarean and its perceived
complications.
Focus group discussions and in-depth interviews were conducted with antenatal and postnatal
women, their
caregivers and
health care providers. Inductive
coding approach and thematic framework
analysis was done.
Results:
Five major themes emerged regarding
perceptions of
caesarean section among
women in a
rural area of Karnataka
understanding,
fears,
decision making, after-care and prevention.
Women had a strong preference for normal vaginal
birth, but willing to accept doctor’s
decision for caesarean as they believed that it would protect the
life of unborn
child.
Women perceived that caesarean was profitable to the
hospital. Common mentioned side effects following caesarean were
backache and
pain at the surgical site.
Conclusions:
The
understanding regarding
caesarean section was adequate.
Women had
fears linked to caesarean such as
pain, inability to
work,
weight gain, prolonged recovery and caesarean deliveries in subsequent
pregnancies.
Husbands and other
family members as well as the doctors were the important
decision makers, while the
women themselves had little say in the matter.
Obstetricians need to focus on alleviating concerns among
pregnant women and their
family members regarding
caesarean section.