International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: The negative response towards information on caesarean section among pregnant women in rural communities in Nigeria seems deteriorating, while the maternal/neonatal mortality rate in the country is on a detrimental increase.
Objective: Hence, the aim of this study was to evaluate the exposure of rural pregnant women to information on caesarean section, and their responses to such information, in South-West Nigeria.
Method: The study, which was hinged on Health Belief Model (HBM), adopted a qualitative research methodology, making use of an in-depth interview guide as its research instrument. The instrument was validated by some communication experts and the questions were pretested on some rural pregnant women outside the study area. All the health practitioners within the study area constituted the population, with 15 of them purposively selected as sample for the interview. Data gathered were thematically analysed. Results: Although the study indicated a gradually improving exposure to CS information among women in South-West Nigeria, yet, responses to such information among the women are still generally negative and aversive.
Conclusion: Exposure to CS information among pregnant women in rural South-West Nigeria is still low, and their responses to such information is also generally negative. Bridging the gap between knowledge and acceptance involves more than information delivery. It requires collaborative engagements with all stakeholders.
Key Recommendation: The study, therefore, recommends a sustainable financial support framework that will engender a comprehensive and absolutely cost-free CS operation for pregnant women, especially those in rural areas in Nigeria.
Unique Contribution: This study has offered empirical evidence that could be useful in addressing the challenges of CS information exposure, and the strategies of communicating such information among pregnant women in rural Nigeria.