Perception and Acceptance of Caesarean Section Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria

AbstractThis study assessed the perception and acceptance of caesarean section (CS) among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed. A purposive sample of 169 pregnant women was selected. A 38-item, interviewer-administered questionnaire developed from literature was used. Data were analysed with SPSS version 25 using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests (p<0.05). More than half (55.9%) of respondents had positive perceptions of CS, while 44.1% held negative perceptions. High acceptance of CS was found in 62.4% of women; 37.6% exhibited low acceptance. Healthcare providers’ influence, prior CS experience, and socio-demographic factors (age, marital status, educational level, income, parity, and previous delivery mode) were significantly associated with acceptance. A significant association existed between perception and acceptance (p=0.002). Substantial misconceptions and sociodemographic disparities continue to influence CS acceptance. Strengthening antenatal education, addressing cultural beliefs, and improving provider communication are essential to enhance informed decision-making and equitable maternal healthcare.