Determinants of cesarean section in urban areas of Bangladesh: Insights from the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey-2022.

Abstract

Background: Cesarean section delivery is a surgical way to safeguard maternal and neonatal health when medical risk is associated with delivering babies. Its rates have been increasing globally over the past few decades, with a significant rise recorded in low- and middle-income countries, which leads cesarean section to crucial public health concerns due to unnecessary surgical interventions and associated risks for maternal and neonatal.

Objectives: This study aims to identify the socioeconomic and demographic determinants contributing to the higher likelihood of cesarean section deliveries among Bangladeshi mothers residing in urban areas.

Design: The initial survey employed a cross-sectional design to collect data.

Methods: This research examined the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS) dataset to identify the cesarean section among urban mothers. It utilized the chi-square test to measure associations, the Boruta algorithm, and a multivariable logistic regression model with a forest plot.

Results: The study pointed out that urban mothers belonging in richer and richest families (adjusted odds ratio: 2.83, 95% confidence interval: 1.88-4.26 and adjusted odds ratio: 4.79, 95% confidence interval: 3.13-7.34) and higher educational attainment (adjusted odds ratio: 1.89, 95% confidence interval: 1.20-2.99) are significantly correlated with cesarean section. Divisional differences are also robust with the significance of Sylhet (adjusted odds ratio: 0.23, 95% confidence interval: 0.12-0.47) and Chottogram (adjusted odds ratio: 0.50, 95% confidence interval: 0.30-0.83) divisions. Media exposure (adjusted odds ratio: 1.54, 95% confidence interval: 1.27-1.87) and mothers gave birth at the age 20-24 and 25-34 (adjusted odds ratio: 1.67, 95% confidence interval: 1.31-2.14 and adjusted odds ratio: 3.15, 95% confidence interval: 2.03-4.89) are also highly significantly associated with the likelihood of cesarean section. Moreover, mothers working status (adjusted odds ratio: 0.53, 95% confidence interval: 0.43-0.65) and religion (adjusted odds ratio: 2.33, 95% confidence interval: 1.60-3.38) are also correlated with cesarean section.

Conclusion: The study reveals socioeconomic and sociodemographic reasons associated with the increase in cesarean section rates among urban mothers in Bangladesh, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to mitigate cesarean section rates and improve maternal and neonatal health.