Caesarian Section Rates at Windhoek Referal Hospitals, Namibia by Robson Classification: A 3 Month Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: There has been a global rise in caesarian sections that translates into a rise in maternal and foetal morbidity that is associated with caesarian section. A tool needs to be in place to monitor the caesarian sections and deal with this rise. The WHO recommended the use of the Robson Ten Group Classification this tool. Methodology: Women who delivered via caesarian section between 01 May 2024 and 31 July 2024 were classified according to the Robson Ten Groups Classification. Those who’s files were missing were not classified and hence excluded from the analysis. Indications in each group as well as the overall indications were noted and the caesarian section rate during the study period was also determined. Results: The overall caesarean section rate during the study period was 36.6%. Group 5, 10 and 1 contributed 30.5% [242/794], 17.6% [140/794] and16.4% [130/794], respectively these were the highest groups contributing 64.6% of the total c-sections. The most common indication for c-section was a pathological cardiotocography (foetal distress) Conclusions: Attempts should be made to avoid the first c/section as group 5 being high is shows that women receiving a c-section are at a higher risk for a subsequent one. Intrapartum foetal monitoring practices should be revised to prevent or reduce the rise in c-sections due to a pathological CTG.