Maternal Risk Factors of Caesarean Delivery in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Central India: A Case Control Study

One of the most alarming features of modern obstetrics is the relentless increase in c-section rates. Medical, institutional, legal, psychological and socio-demographic factors play a contributing role. Although c-sections can be lifesaving, c-section rates above the WHO recommended 15% raises global concern.India is also not excluded from this trend. It is time to realize that c-sections not only put both the mother and child at risk, but also pose huge economic burden compared to normal vaginal delivery. This study was designed to identify the maternal risk factors associated with csections. A hospital based case control design was approached. 360 mothers, all consenting 180 consecutive mothers who had c-section in singleton pregnancies and 180 mothers with singleton spontaneous vaginal deliveries were selected from postnatal ward. Data was collected using a pre-tested questionnaire. Out of the 11 variables examined, 7 were found statistically significant. Mothers who had a previous c-section, pre/post term pregnancy and BMI >23 kg/m2 had the highest significant proportion rates. Univariate analysis for risk calculation was done by odds ratio and their 95% Confidence Intervals was done by using Epi Info software. Analyses have revealed several important associations between maternal risk factors and c-section. Most of these factors are modifiable, and if targeted early can reduce the chances of csection significantly.