Why do pregnant women prefer cesarean birth? A qualitative study in a tertiary care center in Southern Thailand

Abstract Background Increasing worldwide rates of cesarean section are global concern. In recent years, births upon maternal request have become a hotly debated issue. Hence, this study aimed to explore reasons for preference without medical indications. Methods A descriptive qualitative was conducted, using in-depth interviews with 27 pregnant women who preferred birth, attending antenatal care in Songklanagarind Hospital from September 2018 June 2019. Data were analyzed content analysis. Results Maternal classified into six main categories: fear childbirth, safety concerns related health risk perceptions, negative previous birth experiences, positive attitudes toward access biased information and superstitious beliefs auspicious dates. Most had more than one reason opting birth. Conclusion Several been elucidated. One striking dates, which challengable obstetricians deal with. Obstetricians should the exact why order prevent or diminish unnecessary births.