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Caesarean births in Tamil Nadu: Levels, change, residential differences and differentials
Authors: Patwardhan, Vaijayanti; Viruthambal, and Vaithilingam Manjamuthu
Source: Indian Journal of Public Health Research & Development, 9(5): 552-557
Topic(s): Cesarean section
Delivery care
Maternal health
Country: Asia
  India
Published: MAY 2018
Abstract: Introduction: Caesarean section is a surgical procedure in which incisions are made through a woman's abdomen and uterus to deliver her baby. C-sections are performed whenever abnormal conditions complicate labor and vaginal delivery, threatening the life or health of the mother or the baby. Objective of the study is to analyze the caesarean births in rural and urban areas with private and public health facilities in Tamil Nadu. Originality: To understand the levels, change, residential differences and differentials of C-section births. Method: Data are used from National Family Health Survey (NFHS 3, 2005-06 & 4, 2015-16). The bivariate analysis is carried out. Results and Discussion: Telangana with 19 states in India and Kanniyakumari with 21 districts in Tamil Nadu are at the top with more than national and state averages respectively in the percentage of births delivered by C-section. Jammu & Kashmir, Manipur and West Bengal and the districts Karur, Ramanathapuram, and Tirunelveli are above the national and state averages respectively in the percentage of births delivered by caesarean section in total, rural and urban areas, and in urban-rural difference and percent change. The C-section births are more among women with first order births and with higher family income. Knowledge about the prevalence, change residential differences and differentials of C-section births will help the relevant professionals/authorities to recommend and conduct such births only in necessary circumstances and have monitoring over the areas with more such births. Conclusion: Caesarean births are more in urban areas and a private health facility.