Social Experiences of Women with Obstetric Fistula Seeking Treatment at Mulago National Referral Hospital in Kampala, Uganda
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Date
2017-08
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Obstetric fistula is a preventable and treatable condition predominately affecting women in low-income countries. Understanding the social context of obstetric fistula may lead to improved prevention and treatment.
O B J E C T I V E S This study investigated social experiences of women with obstetric fistula seeking treatment at Mulago Hospital in Kampala, Uganda.
METHODS A descriptive study was conducted among women seeking treatment for obstetric fistula at Mulago Hospital during a surgical camp in July 2011 using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were computed regarding sociodemographics, obstetric history, and social experience.
F I N D I N G S A total of 53 women participated; 39 (73.58%) leaked urine only. Median age was 29 years (range: 17-58), and most were married or separated. About half (28, 47.9%) experienced a change in their relationship since acquiring obstetric fistula.More than half (27, 50.94%) had acquired obstetric fistula during their first delivery, despite almost everyone (50, 94.3%) receiving antenatal care. The median time suffering from obstetric fistula was 1.25 years. Nearly every participant’s social participation changed in at least one setting (51, 96.23%). Most women thought that a baby being too big or having kicked their bladder was the cause of obstetric fistula. Other participants thought health care providers caused the fistula (15, 32.61%; n = 46), with 8 specifying that the bladder was cut during the operation (cesarean section). Knowing someone with obstetric fistula was influential in pursuing treatment. The majority of participants planned to return to family (40, 78.43%; n = 51) and get pregnant after repair (35, 66.04%; n = 53).
CONCLU S I O N Study participants experienced substantial changes in their social lives as a result of obstetric fistula, and there were a variety of beliefs regarding the cause. The complex social context is an important component to understanding how to prevent and treat obstetric fistula. Further elucidation of these factors may bolster current efforts in prevention and holistic treatment.
Description
This study investigated social experiences of women with obstetric fistula seeking treatment at Mulago Hospital in Kampala, Uganda.
Keywords
Genitourinary fistula, Maternal health, Obstetric fistula, Obstructed labor, Social experience, Uganda
Citation
Barageine, Justus Kafunjo et al., 2017. Social Experiences ofWomen with Obstetric Fistula Seeking Treatment at Mulago National Referral Hospital in Kampala, Uganda