Birth is a time of great emotional ups and downs for expectant moms. Although doctors may advise a cesarean section, giving birth naturally is the best option. This blog article discusses gynecology in Sierra Leone and the best practices for controlling and potentially reducing the need for cesarean delivery. It is critical to address the misuse of this surgical technique, as the whole world is working to improve mother and newborn health.

High rates of cesarean section and its impact on maternal health 

Globally, the cesarean delivery rate has increased, and according to the WHO, it will be 29% by 2030. Despite being a lifesaving procedure in gynecological care that has significantly reduced the child death rate in critical situations, its use has increased even when it is not necessary. This has a significant impact on the mother's and baby's health, too. 

High C-section rates can cause severe health issues for mothers, including infections, blood clots, and organ damage. Post-C-section recovery can be longer and more uncomfortable, and the risk of uterine rupture and placental abnormalities increases. It impacts not only the physical health but also the psychological and emotional well-being of the patient. They are often more expensive than vaginal births due to the surgical procedure, longer hospital stays, and potential complications. 

Best Practices for Controlling Cesarean Delivery 

  •  Awareness

By increasing public understanding of the differences between vaginal and cesarean deliveries, we may help pregnant women, doctors, lawmakers, and communities make sound decisions. With the knowledge they get from this education, women are better able to collaborate with their healthcare providers to make decisions about their birthing preferences. 

Gynecological awareness campaigns can promote vaginal births by promoting proven methods for monitoring labor progress, natural pain relief, and continuous mother care, as well as reducing the need for cesarean sections by educating medical professionals.

  • Promoting Natural Birth procedures

The goal of promoting natural childbirth is to enable women to rely on their bodies throughout labor and delivery without using unwanted medical interventions. Assisting women to feel prepared for labor and delivery via education, support, and encouragement from healthcare personnel reduces the need for unnecessary methods. 

Natural birth progression strategies, such as exercising regularly, maintaining a good mental state, eating healthy food and getting continuous supervision, can definitely lessen the likelihood of a cesarean section. These approaches prioritize maternal and fetal health by lowering the risk of medical treatments and their possible consequences.

  •  Prenatal care with a gynecologist 

Providing complete and individualized Gynecological care is critical for controlling cesarean delivery rates. Thorough screening and personalized care plans can address early identification of risk factors such as maternal age, medical conditions, and previous obstetric history. 

Gynecologists can also manage pre-existing medical conditions through ongoing monitoring and coordination with other healthcare providers or specialists. Collaborative care ensures desired birth outcomes and minimizes cesarean delivery risks. 

  • Strict clinical guidelines 

Clinical guidelines can help regulate cesarean delivery rates by providing clear criteria and recommendations. They ensure reliable medical criteria and reduce deviation by establishing standards for medically necessary deliveries.

Medical professionals can make decisions on the need for cesarean sections as per the set standards, which are based on the latest research. The quality and safety of maternity care can be improved by regularly reviewing and monitoring these guidelines.

How do I find Gynecology in Sierra Leone? 

If you are looking for prenatal care in Sierra Leone or Gynecological in Freetown, then Choithram Memorial Hospital is the perfect find for you. Our Obstetrics and Gynecology department offers comprehensive treatment plans for women, including prenatal and postnatal care, hormonal imbalance treatment, menstruation-related problems, fertility treatment, family planning, and much more. 

Our team of gynecologists and obstetricians utilizes advanced technology and personalized care to ensure women's optimal reproductive and physical health. We advocate for natural birth processes and assist patients in achieving this goal. We only perform cesarean deliveries when medical intervention is necessary or when a natural birth poses a high risk to both mother and child. Please connect with us for gynecology appointments during pregnancy or if you are planning; we will ensure the wellbeing of both the mother and the child to come. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, controlling cesarean delivery rates involves raising awareness about vaginal and cesarean births, promoting natural birth procedures, providing prenatal care with a gynecologist, and following strict clinical guidelines. These practices empower women to make informed decisions, reduce the need for unnecessary interventions, and ensure the health and safety of both mother and child. Choithram Memorial Hospital, the place for Gynecology in Sierra Leone, offers end-to-end gynecological care and promotes natural birth processes while only performing cesarean deliveries when necessary. 

FAQs 

Q1: What are the main reasons for performing a cesarean delivery in Sierra Leone?
Ans: The main reasons for performing a cesarean delivery in Sierra Leone include obstructed labor, fetal distress, and previous cesarean delivery. 

Q2: What efforts are being made to improve Gynecology in Sierra Leone?
Ans. The Sierra Leone government and various organizations are making efforts to improve gynecological healthcare. These include training more gynecologists, increasing access to healthcare facilities, and providing education and resources to combat cultural barriers. 

Q3: What is the role of informed consent in cesarean delivery in Sierra Leone?
Ans. Informed consent is vital in cesarean delivery in Sierra Leone, as it allows women to make informed decisions about their delivery options and ensures they are aware of the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.