Myths and Misconceptions About Caesarean Section Among Women of Reproductive Age in Ogbomoso, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.30442/ahr.1104-05-303Keywords:
Caesarean section, knowledge, misconception, Obstetric emergency, Surgical deliveryAbstract
Background: Caesarean section is one of the modes of birth in modern obstetrics. There is a misconception that these life-saving procedures are only performed in cases of medical emergencies or when a woman is incapable of vaginal delivery.
Objectives: To assess the myths and misconceptions concerning Caesarean section in women of reproductive age and determine the factors that influence its acceptance.
Methods: The study was a community-based, descriptive, cross-sectional study among females of reproductive age (15-49 years). The data was gathered using a semi-structured questionnaire administered by an interviewer.
Results: The mean age of the study participants was 22±3 years, with 32.3% (n = 129) young adults and 4.3% (n = 18) elderly women. Most respondents (54.0%) had satisfactory knowledge of caesarean section, while 46.0% (n = 184) had an unsatisfactory understanding of the procedure. Two hundred and two (50.5%) participants were willing to undergo caesarean section, and 5.0% (n = 20) had an average experience. About 95% (n = 382) of participants had a positive perception of caesarean section, while 4.5% of participants had a negative perception of caesarean section.
Conclusion: Despite prevalent myths, most women demonstrated satisfactory knowledge and positive perceptions of caesarean section, with half willing to accept it. This underscores the need for sustained community engagement and education.
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