Introduction: C-sections are widely performed, yet mothers’ awareness of their risks remains limited. This study assessed knowledge gaps and attitudes to improve patient counseling. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 552 women aged 18 years and older to evaluate their perceptions of cesarean section safety compared to vaginal delivery, assess their knowledge of associated maternal and neonatal risks, and examine their attitudes toward cesarean delivery. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Fisher’s Exact Test with statistical significance set at p< 0.05. Results: The study included 552 mothers, predominantly aged 18–30 (51.4%), with 64.7% having completed high school. Most reported 1–4 pregnancies (80.6%) and 0–5 births (60.5%). Only 22.5% believed C-sections were safer for babies than vaginal delivery, while 77.5% disagreed or were unsure. 56.3% received explanations of risks/benefits from healthcare providers, but 43.7% did not. Among those with prior C-sections, 58.9% would consider vaginal birth in future pregnancies, while 41.1% would not. Feelings toward C-sections were mostly neutral (42.2%) or negative (42.6%), with only 15.2% positive. Regarding the perceived maternal risks of cesarean section, aspiration pneumonia was identified by 17.6% of respondents, hypoventilation or respiratory depression by 29.2%, and sepsis by 24.5%. In terms of neonatal risks, respiratory distress syndrome was noted by 19% of participants, transient tachypnea by 21.6%, and asthma risk by 17%. Conclusions: Mothers demonstrated limited awareness of respiratory risks associated with cesarean section, often expressing mixed or negative perceptions. Targeted educational initiatives are essential to bridge knowledge gaps and empower mothers to make informed decisions regarding their mode of delivery.
Al-Shahrani et al. (2026) studied this question.