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Abstract
Background
Cesarean section delivery is an essential obstetric intervention, yet its rising prevalence raises concerns about overuse and unequal access. Pakistan has shown increasing cesarean section rates alongside improvements in institutional deliveries.
Objective
This study examined patterns and trends of cesarean section and normal vaginal deliveries in Pakistan using evidence summarized from the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey 2017–18, released in 2019.
Methods
The study used secondary evidence from PDHS 2019 reports and published literature. Descriptive analysis was conducted on a nationally representative sample of women aged 15–49 years who reported a live birth in the five years preceding the survey. Mode of delivery was assessed across maternal age, residence, education, and wealth status.
Results
Among approximately 7,800 women, 75.9% delivered normally and 24.1% by cesarean section. Cesarean delivery was more common among urban residents, older women, those with higher education, and women from wealthier households. Normal vaginal delivery predominated among rural, poorer, and less educated women.
Conclusion
Cesarean section use in Pakistan shows marked socioeconomic and demographic disparities. Targeted policies are needed to limit unnecessary cesarean deliveries while ensuring equitable access to medically indicated surgical care.