Frequency and indications of caesarean-section in females undergoing induction of labor

Frequency & indications of caesarean-section

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of caesarean section and to identify the common indications leading to caesarean delivery in females undergoing induction of labor.

Study Design: A descriptive cohort study

Place and Duration of Study :This study was conducted at Hameed Latif Hospital from 05 June 2024 to 20 December 2024.

Patients and Methods: Five hundred pregnant women admitted for induction, selected via convenient sampling. Descriptive statistics were applied to analyze both qualitative and quantitative variables, with stratification for effect modifiers such as age and BMI, followed by post-stratification chi-square test.

Results: The study revealed that 45.2% of participants underwent caesarean section, while 54.8% achieved vaginal delivery. Prolonged labor was the most prevalent indication for caesarean section (40.1%), followed by fetal distress (29.9%), failed labor (19.8%), and patient refusal of further induction (10.2%). The caesarean section rate was notably elevated in the 31-35 years age group (42.4%) and in women with higher BMI (49.2%).

Conclusion: Induction of labor is associated with a moderate risk of caesarean section, particularly in primigravida women and those with an unfavorable cervix. The most common indications for caesarean section include failed induction, fetal distress, and failure to progress. Careful selection of patients and proper monitoring during induction can help reduce the rate of unnecessary caesarean deliveries.