The Medical Journal of Basrah University

Abstract

ABSTRACT
This is a cross sectional record based study aimed at studying the incidence and trend of caesarian section in Basrah
Maternity and Child Hospital during the period extending from 1997-2003. In addition a sample of 150 women who
were delivered by caesarean section in the same hospital over the period extending from the 1st of June to the 15th of
September 2004 were also included to study the indication for Caesarean section. The results of the study showed that,
the overall incidence rate of caesarean section over the period 1997-2003 was 15.25%. The annual incidence of
caesarean section in the 7 years period showed a steady increase from 10.8% to 21.3%. The commonest indication for
elective caesarean section was previous two scars (33%), while for emergency cases abnormal presentation and lie
was the commonest indication (27%).