Redefining Masculinity and Childbirth: Men’s Perception and Attitude towards Caesarean Sections in a Faith based Institution in Zaria, Northern Nigeria

Abstract

Caesarean section (CS) is a crucial surgical intervention recommended when vaginal delivery poses risk to the mother or infant. This study investigates men's perception and attitude towards CS among members of a faith-based institution in Zaria, Kaduna State. Employing a cross- sectional descriptive design, a simple random sampling technique was utilized to select 246 participants from the study population of 504 men. Data were collected using a self-structured, validated questionnaire and analyzed with IBM SPSS version 27, descriptive statistics including frequency, percentage, and mean score were used to summarize the data. Findings indicate that while the majority of respondents hold negative perceptions of caesarean section (aggregate mean: 2.2), they exhibit a generally positive attitude towards CS (aggregate mean: 2.7). The most significant factors influencing perception and attitude were cultural beliefs, media representation and fear of birth complications. Therefore, the study recommends the need for enhanced education and awareness initiatives among stakeholders in faith-based Organisations as well as the provision of detailed explanation by health care providers to men so as to improve understanding and acceptance of caesarean section in this community.