Cesarean Section Trends and Associated Factors at a Tertiary Care Center in India: A Retrospective Study

Background Cesarean section (CS) is one of the most common surgical procedures performed on women globally, and its prevalence has been rising significantly over the past few decades. CS rates have been increasing globally, raising public health concerns due to the associated financial burden and increased health risks compared to vaginal delivery. Methodology This study involves a retrospective analysis of delivery records from a tertiary care hospital in Uttar Pradesh, India, over 10 years, from January 2011 to December 2021. Results The data presented shows a significant shift in delivery methods over the past decade, particularly in the increasing rate of CS at our tertiary care center. From 2011 to 2021, the rate of CS increased from 39.6% to 52.4%. A detailed examination of the indications for primary elective CS reveals that oligohydramnios with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) remained the most common indication, increasing from 31% in 2011 to 34.3% in 2021. Other significant indications include malpresentation and cephalopelvic disproportion. Conclusion The study indicates a rising trend in CS rates at the tertiary care center, with various clinical and non-clinical factors influencing this increase. The increasing rates of maternal requests for CS, both primary and repeat, point towards a shift in patient preferences and expectations. Additionally, the changing trends in indications for both elective and emergency CS highlight evolving clinical practices and an increased emphasis on maternal and fetal safety. Continuous monitoring and analysis of these trends are essential to ensure that the indications for CS are appropriately managed, balancing the benefits and risks associated with surgical deliveries.