Abstract
Background
Obstetric fistula is a devastating complication caused by a prolonged and obstructed
labor. It is estimated that about 2 million girls and women continue to live with
obstetric fistula while between 50,000–100,000 women worldwide develop obstetric fistula
each year. This condition continues to persist and remains a major problem in Ghana
and other developing countries.
Aim
To explore the challenges and post-surgery integration needs among rural women living
with obstetric fistula.
Method
A critical exploratory research methodology based on phenomenology was used to conduct
in-depth one-on-one interviews. A non-probability and purposive sampling were done
to identify thirty-six (36) women between the ages of 25 and 65. The interviews were
recorded electronically and transcribed verbatim. A systematic analysis of data was
then done to identify and categorize emerging themes.
Results
The results from the study showed that those who lived with obstetric fistulae experienced
psychosocial, physical and economic challenges. Dominant among the psychological challenges
identified were disruptions in social relations, divorce and loss of baby through
neonatal death. Physical challenges include rashes and sores, foot drop, incontinence
of urine. Economically, these women lost their source of livelihood and were heavily
dependent on other family members. Support from family was also found to be key towards
the post-surgery integration of the women.
Conclusion
Obstetric fistula is a dilapidating condition that needs to be addressed at the micro,
mezzo and macro level. Based on the findings of the study, recommendations were made
to improve emergency obstetric care for women especially for women living in rural
communities.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: May 13, 2022
Accepted:
April 1,
2022
Received in revised form:
March 30,
2022
Received:
August 22,
2021
Identification
Copyright
© 2022 Australian College of Midwives. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
