TITLE:
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Health Professionals Regarding Caesarean Section in the Territories of Beni and Lubero
AUTHORS:
Justine Vuma Musubao, Mumbere Emmanuel Nzanzu, Kashinde Trésor Mosomo, Claude Ngona Mandro, Kasereka Claude Masumbuko, Patrick Kahindo Muyayalo, Jean-Jeannot Sihalikyolo Juakali
KEYWORDS:
Knowledge, Practices, Caesarean Section, Healthcare Professionals, Democratic Republic of the Congo
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Biosciences and Medicines,
Vol.14 No.4,
April
29,
2026
ABSTRACT: Introduction: The sustained increase in cesarean section rates has become a significant concern for maternal and neonatal health. The decision to perform a cesarean section is not based solely on medical criteria; it is also influenced by other factors related to healthcare professionals. The objective of this study was to assess healthcare professionals’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cesarean section. Methods: A cross-sectional, analytical, multicenter study was conducted among 402 healthcare professionals (161 nurses, 132 midwives, 109 general practitioners). These participants worked in health facilities providing a complementary package of activities across eight health zones in the territories of Beni and Lubero. Study data were collected using Kobocollect and analyzed with SPSS 29.0. Results: The level of knowledge about caesarean section was considered sufficient among 60 healthcare professionals, representing 14.93% of the sample. In addition, 119 healthcare professionals (29.60%) exhibited appropriate attitudes and practices regarding caesarean section. The absence of training in emergency obstetric and neonatal care increased the risk of having insufficient knowledge, an inappropriate attitude, and inappropriate practice toward caesarean section by factors of 13, 6, and 5, respectively. Conclusions: Healthcare professionals’ knowledge of caesarean section was limited, with inappropriate attitudes and practices. Continuing professional development for healthcare workers in emergency obstetric and neonatal care will improve their competencies, thereby ensuring effective communication about caesarean section during antenatal and postnatal consultations.