Perception And Attitudinal Determinants Of Acceptance Of Caesarean Section Among Pregnant Women In A Southwestern Nigerian Specialized Hospital: A DescriptiveCross-Sectional Study
Keywords:
Acceptance, Attitude, Caesarean Section, PerceptionAbstract
Caesarean section (CS) is a life-saving obstetric intervention when vaginal delivery poses risks to the mother or fetus. Despite its proven benefits, acceptance of CS in many low and middle-income countries, including Nigeria, remains influenced by sociocultural beliefs, misconceptions, and financial constraints. This study assessed perception and attitudinal determinants of CS acceptance among pregnant women attending a specialized hospital in Southwestern Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant women attending antenatal care at the State Specialist Hospital, Akure, Ondo State. A total of 445 consenting participants were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires. Perception and attitude were measured using 10- item Likert scales. Data were analyzed using STATA version 14.2. Descriptive statistics summarized variables, while Chi-square tests and logistic regression identified predictors of acceptance at p < 0.05. The mean age of respondents was 31 years. Overall, 87% of respondents demonstrated positive perception, and 90.6% had positive attitudes toward CS. Multivariate analysis showed that positive recommendations from healthcare providers significantly predicted acceptance (AOR = 5.67; 95% CI: 2.31–13.94). Additionally, assurance of fetal safety (AOR = 4.34; 95% CI: 2.07–9.10; p < 0.001), and family support (AOR = 4.03; 95% CI: 1.92–8.40) significantly influenced acceptance. Acceptance of CS among pregnant women was strongly influenced by perceived fetal safety, healthcare provider recommendation, and family support. Strengthening antenatal education, improving clinician-to-patient communication, and promoting family-inclusive counselling may enhance timely acceptance of medically indicated CS and improve maternal and neonatal outcomes.
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