Spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery: knowledge and barriers among women in Makkah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Nevertheless, regarding risks and benefits for both mother and fetus, regional anesthesia is the recommended procedure. Some patients need clarification about the anesthetic process and risks that affect their choice of received anesthetic technique. In this study, we aim to measure the level of knowledge regarding spinal anesthesia for cesarean section (CS) and to determine spinal anesthesia barriers among women in the Makkah region of Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among women in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. A pretested, self-administered questionnaire was distributed to participants through social media platforms. The questionnaire includes questions about socio-demographic data (i.e., age, marital status, educational background, etc.) and knowledge of and perceived barriers toward spinal anesthesia. Results: Three hundred seventy-three women, mostly of Saudi nationality (93.8%), participated. The most common barriers to spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery were worries about a chronic headache (42.9%) and chronic back pain after delivery (41.8%). Poor knowledge of spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery was found among 46.4% of women, moderate knowledge among 45.3%, and good knowledge among only 8.3%. Factors associated with increased knowledge were being married, being more educated, having children, previously undergoing CS, having a greater family monthly income, and planning to have spinal anesthesia. Conclusion: There is a lack of knowledge among women regarding spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery. Educated and high-earning women who are married and have children tend to be more knowledgeable about this type of neuraxial anesthesia than other women. Educating women in an ongoing manner regarding the benefits of spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery is warranted.