Individual and community factors associated with indications of caesarean delivery in Southern Nigeria: Pooled analyses of 2003–2013 Nigeria demographic and health surveys

ABSTRACT

In this study, the researcher examines associated individual and community factors of indications of caesarean delivery in Southern Nigeria. Data were pooled from 2003–2013 Nigeria Demographic and Health Surveys. Analyses were performed using Stata 12. The multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression was applied. Indications of caesarean delivery were 4.9% over the studied period. Maternal age, parity, education, and household wealth were significantly associated with indications of caesarean delivery. Community effects on indications of caesarean delivery were significant. A public health education programme is needed to address aversion to caesarean sections among those who may have medical need for caesarean delivery.

Acknowledgments

The author would like to appreciate and thank National Population Commission (NPC) [Nigeria], ICF International and MEASURE DHS for granting authorization to analyze the datasets.