PREVALENCE OF CAESAREAN SECTION AMONG POSTNATAL MOTHERS AND THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF MOTHERS WHO HAVE UNDERGONE THE PROCEDURE AT THE TAMALE TEACHING HOSPITAL

Abstract

Childbirth is a complex and significant life experience for women, often leaving lasting psychosocial and emotional impacts. Caesarean section (CS) is a vital maternal and reproductive health intervention performed in cases where vaginal delivery poses a threat to life. This study aims to determine the prevalence of caesarean sections and explore the lived experiences of mothers who underwent the procedure at the Tamale Teaching Hospital. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 312 women who delivered at the Tamale Teaching Hospital between March 1st, 2023, and concluded on March 31st, 2023. Participants were selected using census population and purposive sampling, surveyed with a structured questionnaire and interview guide, and data were analyzed using SPSS V20 and thematic content analysis. Out of 312 respondents, 113 (36.2%) underwent caesarean sections, with 45 (14.4%) classified as elective and 68 (21.8%) as emergency procedures. Mothers reported varied experiences of midwifery care, encompassing both positive and negative aspects. Positive experiences included psychological support and pain management whiles the negative experiences includes payment of the service they received. Maternal age, marital status, parity, ANC attendance, area of residence, and birth weight were found to be independently associated with caesarean section. The study highlights a high prevalence of caesarean sections, with distinct associations to socioeconomic and obstetric factors. The Ministry of Health in Ghana is recommended to investigate and address these factors through community outreach and educational programs to improve maternal and reproductive healthcare