Caesarean section delivery rates and associated factors in a faith-based referral hospital in Ghana: A retrospective analysis

Abstract

Introduction The global incidence of caesarean section (CS) deliveries has exceeded the recommended threshold set by the World Health Organization. This development is a matter of public health concern due to the cost involved and the potential health risk to the mother and the neonate. We sought to investigate the prevalence, indications, maternal and neonatal outcomes and determinants of CS in private health facilities in Ghana. Method A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted using data from women who delivered at the Holy Family Hospital from January to February 2020 using descriptive and inferential statistics, with a significance level set at p<0.05. Results The prevalence of CS was 28.70%. The primary indications of C/S include previous C/S, foetal distress, breech presentation, pathological CTG and failed induction. Significant associations were found between CS and breech presentation (AOR = 4.60; 95%CI: 1.22–17.38) p<0.024, previous CS history (AOR = 51.72, 95% CI: 11.59–230.70) p<0.00, and neonates referred to NICU (AOR = 3.67, 95% CI: 2.10–6.42) p<0.00. Conclusion The prevalence of caesarean section (CS) deliveries was higher than the WHO-recommended threshold. Major indications for CS included previous CS, fetal distress, and failed induction. Significant risk factors for CS were previous CS history, breech presentation, and neonates referred to NICU.