| Sumario: | Background: Post-Dural Puncture Headache (PDPH) is a common complication following spinal anaesthesia, due to the penetration of the dura mater and cerebrospinal fluid leakage. This study aims to evaluate the incidence and risk factors associated with PDPH in patients undergoing caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia in a tertiary hospital in Somalia. Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 270 pregnant women undergoing cesarean sections under spinal anaesthesia between April 2020 and February 2021. Data were analyzed using STATA 16. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with PDPH, and results were reported as odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: The incidence of PDPH was 46.3% (n = 125). The use of a 26-gauge needle significantly reduced the likelihood of PDPH compared to larger needles (Adjusted OR: 0.3, 95% CI: 0.12-0.74, p = 0.009). Multiple puncture attempts were also associated with an increased risk of PDPH (p = 0.026). Conclusion: The incidence of PDPH in this population is significantly higher than global averages. Needle size and multiple puncture attempts were found to be the primary risk factors. We recommend the use of smaller needles and minimizing repeated punctures to reduce the incidence of PDPH in this setting.
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