Magnitude of Cesarean Section Delivery and Its Associated Factors Among Mothers Who Gave Birth at Public Hospitals in Northern Ethiopia: Institution-Based Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND: Cesarean section is one of the most common surgeries around the world performed whenever abnormal conditions complicate labour and vaginal delivery, threatening the life or health of the mother or the baby. Although the cesarean section is a safe operation, when it is performed without medical need, it puts mothers and their babies at risk of short- and long-term health problems. However, the factors are not persistent and there is limited information concerning the levels of cesarean section delivery and its associated factors in public hospitals of North Wollo Zone. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the magnitude of cesarean section and associated factors in hospitals of North Wollo Zone, Northern Ethiopia. METHODS AND MATERIALS: An institution-based cross-sectional study design was employed among 433 mothers who gave birth in public hospitals of North Wollo Zone, Northern Ethiopia, from March 01 to 30, 2019. A systematic random sampling method was used to select the study participants. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were carried out to identify independent predictors of cesarean section. RESULTS: The magnitude of cesarean section delivery was 30.9% (95% CI, 26.8–35.3). Being urban resident (AOR=4.04, 95% CI: 2.19–7.45), malpresentation (AOR=2.56, 95% CI: 1.29–5.05), having a previous cesarean section (AOR=9.11, 95% CI: 3.77–22.01) and antepartum haemorrhage (AOR=8.65, 95% CI: 3.82–19.56) were statistically and positively associated with cesarean section delivery. CONCLUSION: The magnitude of cesarean section delivery among mothers who gave birth at North Wollo Zone public hospitals was high. Residence, antepartum haemorrhage, having a previous cesarean section, and malpresentation were factors associated with cesarean section. Therefore, health education and giving a clear picture regarding the risks and benefits of cesarean section as well as avoiding unjustified cesarean section delivery should be encouraged.