CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED BY SELECTED MOTHERS WHO HAVE UNDERGONE CESAREAN SECTION IN SAN ISIDRO AND GAPAN CITY, NUEVA ECIJA

Abstract

Cesarean sections (C-sections) continue to rise in modern obstetric care, as they offer a surgical alternative for delivering babies when vaginal birth may complicate pregnancy (Krans, 2018). This increase in C-section rates can be attributed to various factors, including improved access to medical services and changing maternal preferences. However, despite their widespread use, C-sections present women with a unique set of challenges that can significantly affect their physical and psychological well-being. Therefore, this study was conducted to examine the experiences of selected mothers who have undergone cesarean section in selected areas of District IV, Nueva Ecija. Purposive sampling was used to obtain the necessary responses for the study. The participants were limited to twenty (20) mothers who had undergone cesarean section in San Isidro and Gapan City, Nueva Ecija within the past twenty (20) years and were between the ages of twenty (20) and sixty (60) years old. The study utilized semi-structured interviews, voice recordings, and note-taking as data-gathering methods. The results showed that some of the reasons why mothers underwent cesarean section included absence of uterine contraction leading to prolonged pregnancy, cephalopelvic disproportion, preeclampsia, and incorrect fetal positioning. Some mothers reported feeling scared or worried about the effects of the procedure, while others did not experience such feelings. After the surgery, some participants experienced forgetfulness due to anesthesia, back pain, and pain at the incision site, particularly during cold weather. Some mothers also reported limited mobility, as well as colds, chills, and vomiting caused by anesthesia. Most participants recovered over time, either independently or with the support of their family and friends. This study examined the challenges faced by mothers who underwent cesarean section, including physical and emotional complications, pain management, recovery, and mother–child bonding. The findings indicated that mothers experienced various challenges following the procedure. An examination of their coping mechanisms revealed that most participants gradually adjusted to the surgery over time.