Opinions and attitudes of obstetricians and midwives in Turkey towards caesarean section and vaginal birth following a previous caesarean section

Abstract

Aim: To determine the opinions and attitudes of Turkish obstetricians and midwives to caesarean section (C-section) and vaginal birth following a C-section. Methods: The study involved obstetricians and midwives who were working in a state women’s hospital and two private hospitals in Gaziantep, Turkey. Participants were asked to complete questionnaires on sociodemographic data and provide opinions about C-section. Results: A total of 88 midwives and 22 obstetricians participated in the study. Approximately one-third of midwives believed caesarean rates were high at their institution and more than 50% thought that the rate should be reduced. In contrast, although approximately 80% of obstetricians thought that caesarean rates in their institutions ranged between 25–50%, only 18% believed the rate was high and 68% believed that the rate of should be reduced. Midwives and obstetricians tended to agree on most suggested reasons for high C-section rates. When asked about interventions that may reduce the C-section rates, midwives and obstetricians had opposing views. However, most participants agreed that prenatal childbirth preparation courses would be beneficial. Conclusions: This study showed that most midwives and obstetricians believe the rate of C-section at their institution is high and should be reduced.