KNOWLEDGE AND DISPOSITION TOWARDS CESAREAN SECTION AMONG EXPECTANT MOTHERS UTILIZING ANTENATAL SERVICES IN PLATEAU SPECIALIST HOSPITAL, JOS (PSSH)

Abstract

Cesarean section (CS) is the most commonly performed major obstetric surgery worldwide. While the rate of CS is increasing in many developed countries, Nigeria records a low rate of 2.7%, which is well below the World Health Organization's recommended maximum of 15%, despite the existence of many medically indicated cases. This study assessed the knowledge and disposition toward cesarean section among mothers attending antenatal services at Plateau Specialist Hospital. A descriptive hospital-based survey design was employed. A sample of 200 respondents was selected using formula and systematic random sampling (K = 2). Data were collected using a 29-item self-administered structured questionnaire covering the study objectives. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics with SPSS version 22. Findings revealed that 69.8% of respondents had heard of cesarean section, while 30.2% had no prior awareness. Although 64.1% correctly identified CS as a surgical procedure involving the abdomen for fetal delivery, 28.3% confused it with vaginal delivery, and 7.6% did not know what it meant. Only 35.0% had previously undergone a CS. Regarding disposition, 64.0% reported fear or anxiety about undergoing a cesarean section, and 55.5% held negative opinions about it. A majority (64.3%) preferred vaginal delivery if given a choice. Cultural beliefs (40.4%), religious inclinations (46.0%), poor access to health facilities (33.0%), inadequate transportation and communication (36.5%), and financial constraints (41.1%) were identified as major factors influencing attitudes toward CS. The study concludes that although awareness of cesarean section is relatively high, misconceptions and negative attitudes remain prevalent. It recommends that nurses adopt effective, context-specific education and communication strategies during antenatal care to address knowledge gaps, reduce fear, and improve acceptance of medically indicated cesarean sections among expectant mothers.