EC Gynaecology

Introduction: The C-section rate is on a consistent rise, with evidence indicating that one in every five women globally undergoes a caesarean delivery. This study aims to identify disparities in elective C-section deliveries among women in Maharashtra.

Materials and Methods: The fifth round of National Family Health Survey (2019-21) was employed for this study. Univariate analysis, bivariate analysis, binary logistic regression analysis, and concentration index method were utilized to investigate socio-economic disparities in health outcomes.

Result: Roughly half of the caesarean deliveries among women in Maharashtra occurred prior to the onset of labour pain. The likelihood of caesarean deliveries was elevated among educated mothers, women over 30 years old, those with a high body mass index, individuals who attended more than four antenatal visits, residents of rural areas, and those from wealthier households. The concentration index suggests that caesarean deliveries were predominantly conducted among women from affluent families in Maharashtra.

Conclusion: Several socio-economic factors contribute to the rising rate of C-sections. Almost half of these deliveries occur before the onset of labour pain. One significant contributing factor to the rising prevalence of C-sections could be the preference for scheduling Caesarean deliveries before the onset of labour pain.

 Keyword: C-Section Delivery; Voluntary C-Section; Disparities; Maharashtra; India

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