Audit of Caesarean Sections in a Single Centre: Analysis of its Frequency and Indications

Abstract

Background: Caesarean section serves a substantial parameter of comprehensive emergency obstetric and neonatal care and it is a package of care that groups together basic emergency obstetric care as well. Objective: To evaluate the frequency and indications of caesarean section in a tertiary care hospital. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bahawal Victoria Hospital, Bahawalpur from June to November 2018. The records of all the women delivering either vaginally or by caesarean section during the study period were retrieved. Age, socioeconomic status, parity, type of delivery, and indications for which caesarean sections were noted. Data was analyzed by SPSS version 20. Results: A total of 4575 deliveries were conducted during the study period. Out of these, 2605 (57%) had caesarean sections, and 1970 (43%) delivered vaginally. Maternal age ranged from 20 to 40 years. The most common reason for caesarean section was repeat caesarean section (22%) followed by fetal distress (21%). Conclusion: This study revealed that there is a high frequency of caesarean section in tertiary care hospital, and the most common reasons for caesarean section were repeat caesarean section and fetal distress. The departmental protocols and SOPs must be made for indications of caesarean section. Adherence to standard guidelines and protocols for managing labor is required.