Opinions and attitudes of obstetricians and midwives in Turkey towards caesarean section and vaginal birth following a previous caesarean section

Abstract

Aim To determine the opinions and attitudes of Turkish obstetricians and midwives to caesarean section (C-section) and vaginal birth following a C-section. Methods The study involved obstetricians and midwives who were working in a state women’s hospital and two private hospitals in Gaziantep, Turkey. Participants were asked to complete questionnaires on sociodemographic data and provide opinions about C-section. Results A total of 88 midwives and 22 obstetricians participated in the study. Approximately one-third of midwives believed caesarean rates were high at their institution and more than 50% thought that the rate should be reduced. In contrast, although approximately 80% of obstetricians thought that caesarean rates in their institutions ranged between 25–50%, only 18% believed the rate was high and 68% believed that the rate of should be reduced. Midwives and obstetricians tended to agree on most suggested reasons for high C-section rates. When asked about interventions that may reduce the C-section rates, midwives and obstetricians had opposing views. However, most participants agreed that prenatal childbirth preparation courses would be beneficial. Conclusions This study showed that most midwives and obstetricians believe the rate of C-section at their institution is high and should be reduced.