Frequency of Indications of Cesarean Section in Gynae Ward of Ayub Teaching Hospital Abbottabad

Abstract

Cesarean section (CS) is a prevalent medical procedure associated with pregnancy, often leading to serious complications for both mother and fetus. It is a major contributor to maternal mortality, with every tenth pregnancy experiencing complications due to this procedure. The complications can be severe, including shock, infections, hysterectomy, and even fetal or maternal death. This study presents a concise literature review on cesarean sections, focusing on its definition, prevalence, and distribution in Pakistan, with particular emphasis on the Abbottabad region in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The study sampled 110 individuals, with the age at marriage ranging from 13 to 31 years. Among the participants, 42 were from Gynae B Ward and 68 from C Ward. Of these, 67 (60.9%) underwent emergency cesarean sections, 39 (35.5%) had pre-planned CS, and only 4 (3.6%) opted for elective CS. Additionally, 102 women had no complications, while 8 experienced eclampsia or pre-eclampsia. Improving maternal health through comprehensive prenatal care and screening programs is essential to reduce the need for emergency cesarean sections. Early intervention for high-risk pregnancies, increased literacy rates, improved socio-economic status, and widespread access to free healthcare services are crucial for enhancing maternal and perinatal outcomes. Early testing and monitoring of blood pressure during pregnancy can help identify women who genuinely require a cesarean section, potentially reducing the procedure's frequency and associated risks.