Cesarean section and Socio-Demographic Variables in Algeria An Analysis Using the 2019 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey Database MICS6

Abstract

Algeria has experienced a concerning increase in cesarean section rates, which points to a shift in childbirth practices that may be driven by non-medical socio-demographic factors. The aim of this study is to identify the socio-demographic variables that lead Algerian women to choose cesarean sections over natural births. To achieve this, a Chi-Square test of independence and Cramér's V statistical test were conducted using the 15-49 Women's File Database from the 2019Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey in Algeria (MICS6). The statistical analysis showed that cesarean sections in Algeria are linked to several socio-demographic variables, with the most significant being the woman's place of birth, where cesarean deliveries are more common in the private sector compared to natural births. Addressing this challenge requires strategic interventions to ensure that cesarean sections are performed strictly for medical reasons.