Adverse Maternal Outcomes of Cesarean Section: Prevalence, Complications, and Predictors Among Mothers Who Underwent Cesarean Delivery at Yirgalem General Hospital, Sidama Region, Ethiopia - A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Despite its life-saving potential, cesarean delivery (CD) remains a major concern due to its increased risk of intra/post-operative complications. This study therefore evaluated adverse maternal outcomes following cesarean section (CS) and identified correlated factors among women who delivered at Yirgalem General Hospital. METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted from March 4 to 25, 2024, involving 372 mothers. Data were collected using a structured checklist through a review of medical records of women who gave birth by CS between February 6, 2022 and January 5, 2024. The data were entered into EpiData 3.1, and then exported to SPSS version 21 for analysis. Association between outcome variable and its predictors was examined using bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis. Statistical significance was defined as a p-value ≤0.05, with adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals reported. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of maternal adverse outcome following CS was 27.7% (95% CI: 23.3%, 32.4%). Significant factors of adverse outcome encompassed rural residence (AOR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.09 - 3.86), lack of antenatal care follow-up (AOR = 2.26, 95% CI: 1.22 - 4.21), and a history of pre-existing medical illness (AOR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.26 - 4.23). CONCLUSION: The occurrence of maternal adverse outcome following CS in the study setting was notably high. Rural residence, lack of ANC, and pre-existing medical conditions were significant determinants. Strengthening healthcare access in rural areas, improving antenatal care coverage, and ensuring early diagnosis and management of medical conditions are essential to reducing complications associated with cesarean delivery.