Factors Affecting Trends of Cesarean Section: A Review

Abstract

Cesarean section rate is rising in both developing and developed countries. The reason for the increase is multifaceted. The clinical and non-clinical factors have explained the wide variation in cesarean delivery rates between and within countries. Changes in maternal characteristics and professional practice styles, increasing malpractice pressure, as well as economic organizational, social and cultural factors have been implicated in this trend.  The higher rate of CS is a complex and multidimensional phenomenon. Therefore, programs and interventions should be introduced to decrease the rate of CS like painless vaginal delivery, emotional and educational interventions, improved quality of safe normal vaginal delivery in both private and public settings as well as the change in maternal and professional attitude towards the choice of mode of delivery.

Keywords: Cesarean section, cesarean delivery on maternal request, advanced maternal age, maternal socioeconomic status, education level, maternal obesity