| dc.description.abstract | Caesarean births were originally used as an emergency-birthing alternative for complicated births and labours that endangered either the life of the child or that of the mother. There are two main types of Caesarean Section deliveries; these are Classical and Vertical Caesarean Section.
The main aim of the study was to Determine the Contributing Factors to increased numbers of Caesarean Section deliveries at Mbala General Hospital in the Northern Province of Zambia. The specific objectives of the study were: -
•To identify Cultural practices that may be associated with high proportion
of Caesarean Section deliveries
•To asses how the attitude and knowledge levels of women concerning
pregnancy . Labour and delivery contribute to the increased numbers of
Caesarean Section deliveries
•To Identify service factors that may contribute to increased to increased
numbers of Caesarean Sections
•To utilize the findings to develop recommendations to all stakeholders for
appropriate action.
The literature review revealed that, there is increased number of Caesarean Section delivery, global, regional and nationally. The literature review was focused on the knowledge, practice of pregnant women and the attitude of the nurses attending to the pregnant women.
These areas are, Mbala General Hospital (Labour ward and children's ward), Tulemane clinic, Masama Rural Health Post and Kalambo Health Post. Data was collected from 50 mothers who have had Caesarean Section delivery at Mbala general hospital between the years 2001 and 2005.
Respondents were selected by use of simple random sampling technique. Questionnaires were used to collect data from the mothers. Data analyses were done manually using a data master sheet and a scientific calculator. It was represented in the form of frequency tables, figures and charts. Cross tabulations were used to determine relationship between variables. '
The study revealed that majority (54%) of the women had medium level of knowledge about antenatal care and this was attributed to inadequate information education and communication (IEC). About 90% did not understand the importance of booking antenatal early in the first trimester. Many attended less than four (4) times antenatal clinic.
Majority (80%) couldn't mention at least one danger sign of pregnancy.
The study further revealed that 62% of the women had bad health practices. This
could have been due to low educational levels and socioeconomic factors and culture of
the women. 100% of women with University level of education had good health
practice. This shows that medical personal has a big challenge of giving IEC to
the women and the community at large. The referral system should be
strengthened and transport system be improved as well.
The study made recommendations to the Health Centers and the Ministry of Health. | en_US |
