EP01.44: Maternity care professionals' perceptions on the causes of high Caesarean section rates in Greece

The purpose of this study is to capture the perceptions of all health professionals involved in the process of childbirth, in an effort to objectively identify the contributing factors for unnecessary Caesarean sections “epidemic”. This is a study of anonymous questionnaires, in which a total of 120 health professionals participated (34 specialised obstetricians, 20 residents in obstetrics, 66 midwives) from various obstetric units in the country, both public and private. The questionnaire included the ten most common causes blamed for the increased Caesarean section rates, and each participant was asked to select the top four in their opinion. The four reasons chosen most often by health professionals were in order: “tocophobia/maternal request” (73%), “fear of litigation in case of dystocia” (58%), “Caesarean section convenience” (54%), “improper labour induction” (50%). The first two causes were the most important among specialised obstetricians, while the residents highlighted: “false-positive CTG/poor CTG interpretation” and “inability to perform VBAC”. Finally, midwives highlighted “Caesarean section convenience” and “improper labour induction”. It is clear that residents are concerned about their lack of training in CTG interpretation and VBAC. Experienced obstetricians emphasise the increased rates of maternal request; they also recognise the defensive approach of labour under the fear of litigation. Finally, midwives refer to improper practices, fortunately limited, dictated partially by the modern way of life, characterising Caesarean section as the quick and convenient mode of delivery. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.