Examination of Delivery Patterns and Factors Associated with the Preference for Elective Cesarean Section among Obstetricians and Midwives at Mashhad University of Medical Sciences: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction:. This study aims to investigate the types of deliveries experienced by midwives and obstetricians and the factors associated with their preference for elective cesarean sections at Mashhad University of Medical Sciences.



Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022 among obstetricians and midwives working at Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. Sampling was performed using a convenience method through the distribution of an electronic questionnaire (via Porsline). The questionnaire included demographic information, delivery history, type of delivery (vaginal or cesarean), and reasons for preferring elective cesarean sections. Data were analyzed using SPSS software and the Chi-square test.



Results: Among the participants, 28% experienced a vaginal delivery in their first childbirth, while the others chose a cesarean section. The most common reasons for selecting elective cesarean sections in the first delivery included fear of pain (61%), concern about perineal injury (60%), and dissatisfaction with frequent vaginal examinations (43%). No significant difference was observed between midwives and obstetricians regarding the type of delivery in the first childbirth; however, midwives showed a greater inclination to choose cesarean sections in their second deliveries. Deliveries in non-university hospitals were also associated with a higher rate of cesarean sections.



Conclusion: Most participants preferred cesarean sections not due to medical indications but for psychological and social reasons. The results highlight the necessity of expanding pain relief methods during childbirth, promoting the presence of support persons, and fostering social awareness to accept vaginal delivery as a safe and physiological process.