Abstract:
Background: There has been an increase in caesarean sections due to complications, which include malpresentation of foetus. Despite the good outcomes of present day caesarean sections, expectant mothers diagnosed with breech presentation still experience great turmoil. The risk factors provided by literature for the occurrence of breech presentation are many and varied. However, some factors such as maternal age and number of pregnancies are common to all.
Aim: The aim of the research is to assess the occurrence of breech presentation using the 37 Military Hospital as a case study.
Methodology: The study adopted a cross-sectional and descriptive design. Ninety-four (94) pregnant women of gestational age ≥ 37 weeks were recruited via purposive sampling and were assessed with ultrasound scan to determine foetal positions. Data processing and analysis were done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21. Results: The results of the study showed no statistically significant relationship between maternal age, number of births (parity), education and occupation, and the occurrence of breech presentation. Also, the percentage of pregnant women of ≥ 37weeks gestation with breech pregnancy during the study period at the 37 Military Hospital was 12.8%.
Conclusion: The percentage of women of ≥37weeks gestation with breech pregnancy during the study period at the 37 Military Hospital was 12.8%. There is no statistically significant relationship between maternal age, number of births (parity), the level of education and occupation and the occurrence of breech presentation.
Recommendation: It is recommended that, at term (37weeks) gestation, all pregnant women especially those in rural areas undergo ultrasound scan to inform their clinicians and enable monitoring and planning of safe delivery. Ultrasound scan should be considered a fundamental aspect of effective healthcare delivery and hence, equipment be made available within reasonable distance for easy access by pregnant women. The lack of evidence on risk factors among Ghanaian women implies that more effort is required to mitigate problems associated with breech delivery.
