Masters in Public Health and Leadership (Save the Mothers)

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Forms and Determinants of Domestic Violence: Acase of Pregnant Women in Mukono Municipality-Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2015-10-26) Richard Mulindwa
Background: Domestic violence against women is a common occurrence all over the world. It cuts across age, ethnicity, religion and educational barriers (Brown ridge, 2009) Domestic violence can take various forms: it can be physical, psychological or sexual. Domestic violence during pregnancy is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes such as low birth weight, spontaneous abortion, bleeding during pregnancy, preterm Labor, preterm delivery and higher neonatal death (WHO/UNAID, 2010) In a study done in Rakai district of Uganda, 30% of the women had experienced physical threats or physical abuse from their current partners but there is no information about DV particularly in pregnancy, a vulnerable stage in woman’s life. Objective of the study: This study is intended to determine forms and associated factors of domestic violence among pregnant women in Mukono municipality Methods: This study was among the pregnant women. Across sectional study employing a mixed method research design. It utilized both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection. Qualitative research methods were utilized mainly because of the need for an in-depth understanding of social phenomenon using flexible methods such as interview, Semi-structured and open ended questions while quantitative method was applied to explain the qualitative data
Level and Factors Associated With Utilization of Postnatal Care Services Among Mothers in Iganga General Hospital
(2023) Betty Nakintu
Introduction: PNC is very critical for detection and management of complications in postpartum period for protecting maternal and child health unfortunately the PNC utilization is still low in Uganda. On average in Uganda postnatal care service utilization is lower at 54% and in Iganga hospital was estimated to be at 23% (AHSR, 2021). Objective: The main objective of the study was to determine level and assess factors associated with utilization of postnatal care services among mothers within one week, at 2 weeks and 6 weeks in iganga general hospital in Iganga general hospital. Method: Analytical cross-sectional study design was used to collect quantitative data on the level and factors associated with PNC services at Iganga hospital. Data was collected using semi structured questionnaires for Young Child Clinic (YCC) services. A total of 177 participants were interviewed on socio-demographic characteristics, PNC services utilization and its associated factors. SPSS version was used to analyze the data. Results: Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were fitted to identify factors associated with postnatal care utilization within one week, at 2 weeks and at 6 weeks at p value of < 0.05. The study revealed that the level of PNC utilization was at 28% which is lower than the national average of 54%. The identified associated factors with significance were; lack of information on PNC at p-value of 0.001, Husband support at p-value of 0.002, health workers not providing a full PNC package at p-value 0.002 and lack of privacy at p-value of 0.010. Recommendations: Health providers should always educate pregnant women on PNC utilization during ANC visits as it prepares mothers to utilize the service and this improves health outcomes for both mothers and babies. Always provide privacy and offer a full PNC package to mothers and their babies in the postnatal unit. Iganga Hospital and other health stakeholders in Iganga district should sensitize male spouses on the importance of PNC and to fully support their female spouses. I also recommend for further research on PNC utilization in other districts of Uganda for appropriate inference and attract the attention of policy makers.
Lived Experiences of Seeking Care for Infertility Among Women at Two Selected Fertility Centers in Kampala District
(Uganda Christrian University, 2023-09) Jude C. Onwueme
Infertility is a complex challenge and a medical condition which affects many individuals globally. It affects both males and females in diverse proportions informing a plethora of unpleasant experiences which inflicts pains. In most cultures the world over, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, women bear the burden of “involuntary childlessness”, which over 48million couples around the globe are faced with. Women living with infertility are constrained to prove their womanhood through motherhood, thus informing their quest for treatment even from a wide range of unqualified medics and unheralded sources. The quest to achieve conception through treatment, presents with physical, social, psychological, spiritual and financial challenges. This study explored the perceptions about infertility which the women seeking treatment had, their perceptions of the causes of infertility and adjoining risk factors, the challenges they face as it relates to the cost of treatment and the coping mechanisms (strategies) they employed while undergoing treatment, at two fertility centres in Kampala district. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 women seeking treatment for infertility, selected and recruited using purposive sampling method (in which the participants were randomly picked). Data generated from the study showed that most women seeking treatment for infertility had limited knowledge about infertility and its causes. Also, the cost of treatment of infertility was a burden to most women thus adversely influencing accessibility of treatment and completion of treatment. It was also observed that women employed different mechanisms in their bid to cope with the treatment. Therefore, effective dissemination of information on infertility and its causes, would ameliorate challenges faced. Financial interventions through health insurance schemes are also needed in order to present women seeking treatment with the opportunity of achieving conception. Concerted efforts should also be made by fertility treatment providers and care givers, towards assisting women seeking treatment in coping effectively.
Uptake and Factors Associated with Cervical Cancer Screeing Among Women Seeking Family Planning Services at Kawempe National Referral Hospital
(Uganda Christian University, 2023-09) Anita Nimusiima
Purpose of the study. Cervical cancer screening among women seeking family planning services at Kawempe National Referral Hospital. The study aimed to determine the uptake of cervical cancer screening and establish factors associated with cervical cancer screening among women seeking family planning services at Kawempe National Referral Hospital. Methods. The study design was a descriptive cross-sectional study, which measured factors associated with women seeking family planning services at Kawempe National Referral Hospital. Primary data was obtained from women seeking family planning services using semi-structured questionnaires and Key informant interviews at Kawempe National Referral Hospital. Results. The participants were 138 women aged 18 to 49 years. Forty-nine percent of the respondents had attained ordinary level of education, 32.61% were Protestants and 17.39% were Pentecostal.43.58% agree with lack of access to information, 37.68% agree that take long in the line because women who come for the services are many. 40.58% agree that services are only during weekdays and 32.61% agree that cervical cancer screening services reach their community.34.78% disagree that costs are high, 31.16% disagree with poor infrastructure and 47.10% agree with lack of transport to visit health centers. Just over one-third fear receiving a diagnosis of the disease, 31.88% agree that the vaginal examination to carry out the test is embarrassing but 40.58% disagree that there was no privacy since it is done by male providers. Twenty-nine percent disagree that a woman has to get permission from her husband. 71.01% agree that they have ever heard about Cervical cancer, but only 65.22% have ever heard about cervical cancer screening and only 30.43% have done cervical cancer screening. The uptake of Cervical cancer screening was low, only one-third of the respondents have done cervical cancer screening. Conclusion. Nearly two-thirds of the women had ever heard of cervical cancer and nearly the same number had heard of cancer screening but only one-third had carried out cervical cancer screening suggesting a big gap between knowledge and practice.
Level and Factors Associated with Uptake of Implants Among Women of Reproductive Age (15_49) in Twic East Community, South Sudan
(Uganda Christian University, 2023-09-19) John Thon Riak Yom
ABSTRACT Introduction: Implants are among the modern contraceptive methods that are hormonal, long-acting, and reversible contraceptives. They are small, thin, and flexible plastic rods that release a progestin hormone in the body, either levonorgestrel (Jadelle and Sino implant) or etonogestrel (Implanon). Methods: The research was a community-based cross sectional study. The main source of information for this research was primary data, which was collected from respondents’ households by use of questionnaires, a structured open-ended questionnaire was used as a data collection instrument, and the descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis were used for the analysis of data. Results: The level of uptake of implants among women of reproductive age in Twic East Community, South Sudan was at 40 percent, with a 95% confidence interval of 33.7 percent to 46.5 percent. At multivariate level, after assessing for interaction and confounding, the factors that were significantly associated with uptake of implants were 45-49 years age group (aPR=0.25, 95%CI: 0.08- 0.78, p-value=0.017), Anglican and other religion (aPR=0.60, 95%CI: 0.37- 0.95, p-value=0.031; aPR=0.48, 95%CI: 0.30- 0.78, p-value=0.003), having 3-5 and 6-10 children (aPR=1.86, 95%CI: 1.24- 2.78, P-value=0.003; aPR=3.67, 95%CI: 1.69- 7.99, P-value=0.001), having still birth pregnancy outcome (aPR=4.35, 95%CI: 2.56- 7.39, P-value=0.001), not had unplanned pregnancy (aPR=0.45, 95%CI: 0.29- 0.69, P-value=0.001) and not discussing with husband about implants (aPR=0.21, 95%CI: 0.12- 0.37, P-value=0.001). Conclusion: Our study found uptake of implants among the women of reproductive age at 40 percent. Policies targeted to women of age group 45 to 49 years to encourage more use of implants, more sensitization of husbands on implants will further help to increase uptake of implants and consequently prevent unplanned pregnancies.
Risk Factors for Perinatal Death in Juba Teaching Hospital, Case-Control Study
(Uganda Christian University, 2023-09-22) TABAN GEOFREY COLLINS
Abstract: Background: This study was carried out in Juba teaching hospital to determine the risk factors associated with perinatal death in South Sudan. South Sudan is among the countries with high perinatal mortality despite the pregnant women attend their antennal care services and childbirth free of charge in public health facility. The perinatal deaths were estimated as high as 30 deaths per 1000 live births. Although stillbirth prevention is part of Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH) continuum of care, less information are available, and it was not easily accessible because of limited publication about the stillbirth in South Sudan; neither government set stillbirths reduction targets nor developed plan to prevent stillbirth nor the risk factors for perinatal death in South Sudan had been studied. Lack of information on major perinatal risk factors can lead to continue perinatal deaths, SDG target 3.2 of reducing Neonatal Mortality Rate to 12 per 1000 live births and Under 5 Mortality Rate to 25 per1000 live births cannot be achieved without reducing Perinatal Mortality Rate. Since the underlying causes or specific risk factors are not clear, action to reduce this problem up-to date has been ineffective because specific obstacles to be addressed in this high perinatal death is still unknown. Method: Case-control study was carried out targeting mothers where babies were remained alive by the end of the first week after birth (controls) and mothers of children born in Juba whose babies died in the perinatal period-Uterine Fetal Death (IUFD) or death in first week of life after birth (cases). Results: The finding shows seven (7) risk factors were found significantly associated with perinatal death. The risk factors were (1) maternal alcohol consumption, (2) maternal occupation, (3) delivery at home, (3) bleeding in pregnancy, (4) low birth weight, (5) Lower gestation, (6) lack of ANC attendance, (7) HIV positive mothers. Conclusion: Maternal characteristics The associated risk with maternal alcohol consumption indicates lack of knowledge on pregnancy care and risky lifestyles during pregnancy. Maternal factors The associated risk of bleeding in pregnancy is indicative of lack of knowledge on danger signs in pregnancy which goes on unattended until too late to intervene. The high risk associated with home delivery shows cultural preference and lack of awareness on importance of health facility delivery despite of free health care services at all public health facilities. Neonatal factors The associated risk of low birth weight and low gestational age still reflects lack of knowledge in maternal well-being during pregnancy regarding prevention of maternal complications, unhealthy lifestyles, and poor feeding. Health Facility factors The associated risk with health facility which required skill birth attendant to check fetal heartbeats but failed to do so indicate knowledge gaps in monitoring and management of labor among health care providers.
Breastfeeding Practices and Experiences Among Working Mothers: A Case Study of Primary School Teachers and Nurses in Goma Division, Mukono Municipality
(2024-04-11) Stella Asayo
Introduction: Public health specialists recognize that breastfeeding is an unmatched way of providing ultimate food for the healthy growth and development of infants. In fact, it is recognized as an integral part of the reproductive process with important implications for the health of both the infant and the mothers. To this, global world health experts recommend that all newborns should be exclusively fed on breast milk without any additional food or drink for up to six months. Methods: This was purely qualitative research that adopted a case study research design with the aim of finding out the experiences of mothers in formal employment practicing breastfeeding and how work influences breastfeeding among formally employed mothers in Goma Division-Mukono Municipality. Findings: The study findings revealed that mothers in formal employment experience heavy work load, tight work schedules, very minimal institutional support towards practicing breastfeeding; as such most of breastfeeding mothers ended up failing in principles to successfully achieve the goal of breastfeeding their infants. Results: The researcher recommends government to consider extending the maternity leave duration from the current 3 months to 6 months with flexible working hours to breastfeeding mothers to allow them sufficient time to breastfeed, and the government should make regular follow ups with all intuitions to ensure that they implement the maternity leave policy to breastfeeding mothers. Key works: Breastfeeding, work experience, maternal leave, institutional support
Experiences of Attending Maternal Health Education Sessions Among Women From the Islands of Lake Kivu, Rusizi District, Rwanda; a Qualitative Research
(2024-04-12) Adriana Jacoba Lena Bergman
Background The maternal mortality ratio in Rwanda remains high at 245 (2017) deaths per 100,000 live births (WHO, 2019). Besides improving maternal health, women’s positive experiences during ANC and childbirth can create the foundation for healthy motherhood (WHO, 2016). Maternal health education is an useful intervention to promote health care, birth preparedness and reduce the maternal mortality rate. The purpose of this study is to identify the gaps and contribute to improving maternal health education to improve maternal health and positive experiences of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and post-natal period. Research Methodology Qualitative phenomenological research has been conducted to investigate the experiences of maternal health education sessions among women of reproductive age (15-49 years) from the islands of Gihaya, Nkombo, and Ishywa, Rusizi-district, Rwanda. Primary data has been collected through face-to-face verbal semi-structured interviews. All interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim in English. The data was analyzed by open coding, axial coding, and selected coding. Results and findings The experiences are multidimensional and interlinked. From the data analysis, three main themes came up, which have been used to identify the women's experiences. The first theme is: 1. My life has improved. This theme shows the personal change and narratives of the participants. The second theme: 2. happiness and joy, whereby the participants describe their feelings. The third theme: 3. expectations, needs, and improvement, whereby the participants describe their expectations, needs, and improvement toward maternal health education. Conclusion Based on qualitative analysis of the data collected in the research area it can be concluded that the experiences of women on the islands of Gihaya, Nkombo, and Ishywa were mainly positive. Suggesting that maternal health education sessions contributed to a positive experience in pregnancy.
Knowledge and Determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding Among Nursing Mothers at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital(MRRH).
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-05-22) Muthoni Ruth Mwangi
Introduction: Exclusive breast-feeding contributes significantly to child survival and development, but many mothers in Africa do not exclusively breastfeed their infants. The study aims to identify the knowledge and determinants of Exclusive Breastfeeding among the nursing mothers in Mbale regional and Referral Hospital. Methods: A mixed methods approach was used to collect Data. Respondents included 385 Nursing mothers and 5 health practitioners. Participants were nursing mothers who attended Young Child Clinic and they were selected using simple random sampling. SPSS was used to analyze the data; chi-square test was performed to check for association between factors and outcome variables before performing logistic regression. Bivariate & Multivariable logistic regression were performed to identify factors independently associated with exclusive breastfeeding. Strength of association was measured using odds ratio, and 95% confidence interval. Results: The study gathered that the prevalence rate of EBF in Mbale Regional referral Hospital was low at 45 percent attributed to the knowledge encompassed by the mothers that accessed ANC, PNC services. The study established that majority (85.5 %) of the mothers had information about EBF and there was a significant relationship between maternal socio-demographic factors and EBF in which Beta value (Beta = 0.27, p < 0.001); and obstetric factors (Beta = 0.438, p < 0.001) and child related factors (Beta = 7.3, p < 0.001). Majority of the mothers received EBF information from ANC and PNC sessions (54.5), medical staff (26.5) friends and family (15.3) and lastly social media (3.6) although the practice was still wanting. Conclusions: This research paper has navigated the intricacies of sustainable areas to focus on to ensure Exclusively breastfeeding, shedding the pivotal role of health workers both offering Information, Education and support system as well as care and treatment of women pre and post Natal Period. Recommendations: Strengthening efforts in providing comprehensive ANC and PNC packages, to ensure that mothers get to benefit from the health education sessions offered as well as better obstetric care pre and post Natal ensuring wellness enough to breastfeed. Relentless advocating for baby friendly spaces and facilities to enable working mothers leverage on opportunities to breastfeed at work during healthy breaks.
Risk of Bacterial Contamination of improved point water sources in Lira District
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-05-23) Edwin Okabo
Introduction: Risk of Bacterial contamination of improved point water sources is major health risk in Lira District accounting for 60% of diarrheal diseases. In human being, diarrhea has been known to be caused by drinking of contaminated water. Lira District is reported at 95% safe water coverage while diarrheal diseases have remained high at 60%. Methods: This was a cross sectional study conducted utilizing quantitative method of data collection from total coliforms water quality test results of water samples collected in Lira District. The data was analyzed using STATA version 15. The data was analyzed using logistic regression to obtain the odd ratio. Results: The study indicated that 67% of the water sources tested were contaminated with Total coliforms. Deep Wells registered less contaminated water sources at 44%, while protected spring was highly contaminated at 89% followed by Shallow Wells at 72% and Rainwater harvesting tanks at 61%. Discussion: The results indicated few deep Wells and Rainwater Harvesting Tank was contaminated. The majority of the sampled Shallow Well and protected springs water sources were contaminated. Statistical Analysis showed that the safety of improved point water sources depended on the Water source type or technology, its operation and maintenance and its location in terms of proximity to the contamination source. The study concluded that the total coliforms count in water samples from different sources were associated with water source protection status and sanitation and hygiene practices. It therefore recommends for improved water source protection, and promotion of good sanitation, and hygiene practices.
Level and Factors Associated with Birth Preparedness and Emergency Planning among Prenatal Women of Bugiri Hospital
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-05-31) Beatrice Namumbya
Introduction; Birth preparedness refers to the readiness of pregnant women to give birth safely. It involves a series of actions and plans to ensure both the mother and baby receive proper care and support before and during childbirth. This study therefore sought to determine the level and factors of birth preparedness and emergency planning in the pre-natal women of Bugiri Hospital. Specifically, the study intended to find out the socio-demographic, obstetrics, and gynecology factors and intervening factors that affect the level of birth preparedness. Methods; The study employed a purely quantitative study design to collect primary data from the 288 selected respondents targeting prenatal women in Bugiri Hospital. Analysis was done at three distinct levels using SPSS software. These included univariate (frequencies and percentages), bivariate (chi-square tests), and multivariate (binary logistic regression). Significant factors were identified through chi-square tests and logistic regression analysis. Results; A significant association was observed between education level and birth preparedness (Odds Ratio = 2.597, p = 0.004). Higher education increased the likelihood of optimal birth preparedness among participants. Women with a history of stillbirths exhibited a substantial association with childbirth preparedness (Odds Ratio = 4.771, p = 0.039). The experience of stillbirth heightened the sense of need for preparedness to prevent future complications. Male partner involvement demonstrated a robust association with birth preparedness (Odds Ratio = 1.904, p = 0.004). Active engagement of male partners was transformative, positively influencing overall childbirth experiences. Conclusion; The study concluded that birth preparedness is not solely the responsibility of pregnant women but also the healthcare system, healthcare providers, and the community. It was recommended that the inclusion of childbirth plans in ANC packages is vital alongside other interventions like educational programs, community outreach, and improved access to antenatal care services.
Determinants of Modern Contraceptive Use Among Women of Reproductive Age in Uganda: Between 2001–2016
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-09-05) Joyce Ahumuza
Embarking on a comprehensive exploration of modern contraceptive use in Uganda from 2001 to 2016. This study employs extensive secondary data analysis to unravel the intricate dynamics influenced by socio-economic, demographic as well as other factors on the uptake of modern contraceptives. Amidst moderate changes observed in contraceptive practices over the years, the prevalence of users still falls below expectations set by the Ministry of Health and other institutions in the country. Notably, shifting trends in the initiation of sexual activity among women aged 15-49years are unveiled, peaking at 7.6% in 2001 and gradually declining to 6.3% in 2016. Wealth indices indicate a noteworthy decrease in poverty rates over the same period, possibly linked to government-led poverty reduction initiatives. Educational strides are evident, with 6.8% of women achieving higher education in 2016, reflecting the government's commitment to enhancing access. The dominance of rural residence, reported at 85.3% in 2006, mirrors Uganda's primarily rural population, while fluctuations in working status hint at persistent socio-economic challenges and prevalent informal sector employment. Media exposure dynamics exhibit diverse rates, with 58.9% of women exposed to contraceptive information through radios in 2016. Over time, increased exposure to family planning messages, peaking in 2016 across all platforms, contrasts with comparatively lower exposure via TV and newspapers. The study further unveils nuanced patterns in contraceptive use, spotlighting injections as the most prevalent method from 2001 to 2016. These comprehensive insights contribute to a holistic comprehension of Uganda's reproductive health landscape, paving the way for a detailed discussion of the contextual factors shaping modern contraceptive decisions. Keywords: Modern Contraceptive Use, Reproductive Health landscape
Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Menstrual Hygiene Management Among Teenage Girls in Nantabulirirwa Ward Goma Division Mukono Municipality Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-09-23) Faith Nayebale
Introduction: Menstruation is a natural physiological process and the teenagers undergoing through it require support from different fronts. Globally, 500 million women and teenager girls have poor access to menstrual hygiene facilities, limited education and knowledge about menstrual and its proper hygienic practices. In Uganda, many women (65%) are unable to adequately meet menstrual health and 61.7% of teenagers’ miss school in rural areas of Uganda. Menstruation is is not regularly talked about openly making it difficult for girls to manage their periods. The study aimed at assessing knowledge, attitude and practices on menstrual hygiene management among teenage girls in Nantabulirwa slum, Goma Division, Mukono municipality. Methodology: A descriptive analytical cross sectional mixed study was employed involving the use of quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection The study used both purposive non-random and simple random sampling methods to select a total of 325 teenagers. Data was analysed using Content Thematic Analysis and Statistical Package for Social sciences version 20 software package. Results: Findings show that teenage girls have negative attitudes towards menstrual hygiene management due to stigma from boys, cultural beliefs and perceptions on menstrual hygiene management. However, the teenagers who lived with both parents and in an enabling school environment had more knowledge and better practices. Overall level of knowledge of the adolescent girls on menstrual hygiene management was good due to the menstrual education received before menarche. At P<0.05, there was significant association between menstrual education attainment with age and the education level of the respondents. There was also a significant association (p<0.05) between menstrual education attainment and family type, living arrangement and parent’s level of education. On social economic factors, there was a strong association between menstrual education attainment and interval of towel change during periods, menstrual choice influencer and the used towels disposal. On the cultural aspects, the results showed that at p<0.05, there was significant association between menstrual education attainment and tribe. Conclusion and recommendations: The study establishes that the overall level of knowledge of the adolescent girls on menstrual hygiene management was good. Overall, the study findings show teenage girls have negative attitudes towards menstrual hygiene management. The attitudes of the girls were influenced by cultural beliefs, stigma from boys/men, and perceptions on menstruation. Practices of the teenage girls towards menstrual hygiene management was mostly good. During menstruation it was manifested that majority of the teenage girls practiced safe practices. Addressing the findings by involving the men in menstrual hygiene management, need for parents to educate their teenage girls at an early stage, establishing incinerators at strategic sites for proper disposal, amongst others would bridge the gaps and improve the menstrual hygiene management.
Access and Utilisation of Antenatal Care Services Among Women With Physical Disabilities Attending Mwananyamala Referral Hospital in Kinondoni District
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-09-26) Elia Macha
This qualitative study investigated the access and utilization of antenatal care services among pregnant women with physical disabilities attending Mwananyamala Referral Hospital in Kinondoni District, Tanzania. The specific objectives of the study were to identify barriers and challenges faced by physically disabled women in accessing antenatal care services, to explore the experiences and perspectives of physically disabled women regarding the quality antenatal care services they receive and to examine the support systems and accommodations required by physically disabled women to access antenatal care services effectively. The research employed a case study methodology, and 20 individuals were chosen using the purposive sample technique. Data were gathered through interview while data were analysed using content analysis. Findings from the study reveal a spectrum of barriers faced by physically disabled women, including physical limitations, attitudinal barriers from healthcare providers, policy-related challenges, transportation difficulties, and communication obstacles. Moreover, participants' narratives illuminate the significance of tailored support, education, and accessible infrastructure in facilitating positive antenatal care experiences for this population. From this study, we recommend that there is need to enhance accessibility infrastructure within healthcare facilities, improve transportation options for physically disabled women, and implement training programs for healthcare professionals to become more cognizant of and knowledgeable about the unique requirements of this population. Future research could further explore communication challenges, longitudinal health outcomes, and comparative studies across healthcare facilities, aiming to enhance inclusivity and quality of care for this vulnerable population.
Lived Experiences of Labia Minora Elongation Among Adolescent Girls in Wakiso District
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-09-30) Zaituni Nabateregga
Introduction: Women and girls in different countries practice different Female Genital Modifications (FGMo) for several reasons which may include initiation to adulthood but also preparation for marriage. Labia Minora Elongation (LME) is among those practices carried out in different African countries; In Uganda it is mainly practiced in the central specifically the Buganda region. It refers to the elongation of the inner lips of the external female genitalia. The process takes a long time until the realization of the intended length which ranges from 2 to 8 cm is met. Like many Types 4 Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) practices that do not involve cutting, Labia Minora Elongation does not receive the much-needed attention like Type I, 2, and 3 from researchers, funders, and programmers yet it presents significant impact on the psychological and Physical wellbeing of adolescent girls. The study therefore set to describe the lived experiences of adolescent girls who have experienced Labia Minora Elongation in Wakiso district. Methods: The study used a phenomenological study design to describe the experiences of Labia Minora Elongation following initiation into the practice. In-depth interviews were held with 17 adolescent girls aged 10-15, who had experienced labia minora elongation and these were the primary sources of data. The study looked at the perceptions on LME, the process of elongating the labia minora, major challenges that adolescent girls face after Labia Minora Elongation initiation and the coping strategies they utilize. Findings: Labia Minora Elongation is an unpleasant prolonged process that subjects adolescent girls to months of physical and psychological suffering. It is presents challenges which are usually not acknowledged by the community, and this makes the whole experience a very difficult one. Adolescent girls experience a lot of pain, swelling of the Labia Minora, itchiness from the herbs used, stigma from peers and other psychological effects of engaging in a practice that they are compelled into and don’t fully understand. Discussion: The findings from this study revealed that girls are coerced into modifying their genitals thus there is need for awareness creation to help them have the right information and make their own informed decisions on whether to or not participate in the practice. Even though adolescent girls come up with coping mechanisms to deal with these challenges, they need to be protected against this practice that affects their wellbeing. The study findings will be used to inform policy formulation against the practice and sensitization interventions on the physical and psychological consequences of LME among adolescent girls. The findings will also provide an opportunity for more research on experiences of adolescent girls following LME practice and other silent effects impacting the psychical, sexual, and psychological wellbeing of Adolescents girls in the country and the region.

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