Background The mode of delivery is one of the most critical decisions in maternal care, influenced by psychological, social, cultural and medical factors. Despite the known benefits of vaginal delivery, the caesarean section rate (40% - 55%) in Iran remains significantly higher than the WHO's recommended level (10% - 15%).
Fear of childbirth, anxiety, social norms and misinformation are among the key determinants shaping women's delivery preferences. Understanding these factors is essential for developing effective interventions to promote informed decision-making and reduce unnecessary caesarean sections.
Thus, the study aims to assess the determinants of the choice of delivery mode in pregnant women. Methods and analysis This study will employ a convergent parallel mixed-methods design to comprehensively investigate the determinants of delivery mode choice among pregnant women.
In the quantitative phase, a cross-sectional study will be conducted among 768 primigravid women attending health centres in Tabriz, Iran. Data will be collected using standardised instruments such as the Childbirth Fear Questionnaire, Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and researcher-developed questionnaires addressing sociocultural, environmental and educational factors.
BMJ Open published a clinical update in Research Highlights on 18 May 2026.
The item focuses on Determinants of the choice of delivery mode in pregnant women: a convergent parallel mixed-methods study protocol.
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