A Qualitative Exploration of Factors Influencing Caesarean Section Acceptance among Pregnant Women in the Tamale Metropolis, Ghana
Adisa Osman
Ministry of Health, Nurses’ and Midwives’ Training College, P.O. Box 565, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana.
Francis Kwabena Larle
*
Nursing and Midwifery Training College Sampa P O. Box 60, Bono Region, Ghana.
Anaba Patience Atampoka
Midwifery Training College, P.O. Box 60 Tumu, Upper West Region, Ghana.
Sharifa Iddrisu
Nursing and Midwifery Training College, Gushegu, P. O. Box GU 13, Gushegu, Northern Region, Ghana.
Salamatu Issah
Nursing and Midwifery Training College, Kpembe, P. O. Box SL98, Salaga, Savanna Region, Ghana.
Mariam Gado Seidu
Nursing and Midwifery Training College, Kpembe, P. O. Box SL98, Salaga, Savanna Region, Ghana.
Faustina Erica Akpablie
Nurse’s Training College, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana.
Sumaila Zulaiha
Ministry of Health, Nurses’ and Midwives’ Training College, P.O. Box 565, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana.
Betrand Bayor Gyeng
College of Nursing and Midwifery, P.O. Box 2066, Tanoso - Ahafo Region, Ghana.
Debora Amoah
College of Nursing and Midwifery, P.O. Box 2066, Tanoso - Ahafo Region, Ghana.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Introduction: This qualitative study explores the factors influencing caesarean section acceptance among pregnant women in the Tamale Metropolis, Northern Ghana. The aim was to examine the socio-cultural and healthcare-related factors that shape women’s decisions regarding caesarean delivery.
Aims: This study aims to investigate the factors that influence caesarean section acceptance among pregnant women in the Tamale Metropolis.
Methods: A total of 13 pregnant women from five communities (Bagiliga, Bavim Dohini, Dabokpa, Garizegu, and Jakarayili) were selected using snowball sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in local languages and analyzed using discourse analysis to examine the language used around caesarean section decisions. Reflexivity, member checking, and audit trails were employed to ensure rigor and trustworthiness.
Results: The study revealed that societal and cultural beliefs, past childbirth experiences, and the influence of healthcare professionals were key factors in shaping women’s decisions. Many women prioritized family approval and relied heavily on medical advice, while others held misconceptions about caesarean sections, associating them with stigma or a lack of natural childbirth.
Conclusion: This study examines the factors influencing caesarean section acceptance among pregnant women in the Tamale Metropolis, focusing on cultural beliefs, family influence, healthcare communication, and emotional responses. Women often see C-sections as a last resort, with decisions shaped by socio-cultural norms, and trust in healthcare providers is crucial for improving informed decision-making and maternal health outcomes.
Keywords: Caesarean section, acceptance, cultural beliefs, emotional responses, informed decision-making, maternal health outcomes