Abstract:
Abstract Introduction Cesarean sections have become increasingly common worldwide, with varying factors influencing the decision for this surgical intervention. Among these, hypertensive disorders during pregnancy stand out as a significant concern due to their potential to complicate the gestational period and affect delivery outcomes. The interplay of socio-demographic characteristics with healthcare access and utilization further complicates this landscape, necessitating a comprehensive analysis to identify actionable insights. Aim The aim of this study is to investigate the association between hypertensive disorders in pregnant women and the likelihood of C-section recommendations, while considering the influence of socio-demographic factors and healthcare utilization patterns. Methods A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 384 respondents who were systematically sampled from various healthcare settings. Data were collected through structured interviews, focusing on socio-demographic information, pregnancy and health history, healthcare access and utilization, and specific outcomes related to hypertensive disorders and C-section recommendations. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression, were used to examine the associations between variables. Results The findings reveal a significant association between hypertensive disorders and C-section recommendations, with 46.67% of hypertensive respondents advised to undergo a C-section compared to 17.94% of non-hypertensive respondents. Socio-demographic factors, such as age, education level, and household income, alongside healthcare utilization patterns, were found to influence these outcomes. Conclusion The study underscores the critical impact of hypertensive disorders on the recommendation for Cesarean sections, highlighting the need for targeted prenatal care and management strategies for hypertensive pregnant women. The influence of socio-demographic factors and healthcare access underscores the necessity for a holistic approach to maternal healthcare, aimed at minimizing unnecessary C-sections and improving pregnancy outcomes.
