Assessing the Rise and Variability of Caesarean Deliveries in Sialkot: A Descriptive Analysis of Public Hospital Data (2017–2021)

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17624741

Abstract

Cesarean section based on medical reasons is a generally carried out procedure over the globe. It has become a public concern globally. The rate of C-Sections in Pakistan increased alarmingly from 17% (PDHS, 2017-18) to 26% (PDHS, 2019-20). It has also been observed that C-sections are more commonly performed by the private sector as compared to the public, speculating that there is over-medicalization of childbirth. The current study was an endeavor to explore why C-section as a mode of childbirth is being practiced and what are the associated factors behind it in public hospitals of Sialkot. This study was analytical and descriptive in the 5 years of recorded data of two public hospitals (Allama Iqbal memorial teaching Sardar begum teaching hospital) Sialkot were assessed. Content analysis was done to assess the prevalence of cesarean section. The data showed that the prevalence of cesarean section has increased over the years in the year 2017 to 2020 and gradually declined in 2021. The socio-demographic and medical reasons were found behind the extensive use of cesarean sections.