Perspectives of obstetricians and midwives on the preference for caesarean deliveries: a qualitative exploration in Andhra Pradesh, India.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Caesarean section rates in Andhra Pradesh increased to 42.4% in 2019-21, far above the WHO-recommended 10-15% level. Although the c-sections are life-saving when medically necessary, their overuse is a cause of concern for maternal health outcomes and increased health expenditure. The present study aims to understand the perceptions of obstetricians and midwives on the rising trend of preference for caesarean sections in the selected districts of Andhra Pradesh.

Materials and methods

A phenomenological qualitative research design was adopted for this study, conducted among four districts of Andhra Pradesh: two with high C-section rates (Visakhapatnam, Krishna) and two with low C-section rates (Anantapur, Chittoor). Sixteen in-depth interviews were conducted with

SUBMITTER: Gavvala NB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12664199 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature