Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Despite the increased attention on maternal mortality during recent
decades, which has resulted in maternal health being defined as a Millennium
Development Goal (MDG), the disability and suffering from obstetric fistula
remains a neglected issue in global health. Continuous leaking of urine and the
physical, emotional and social suffering associated with it, has a profound
impact on women's quality of life. This study seeks to explore the physical,
cultural and psychological dimensions of living with obstetric fistula, and
demonstrate how these experiences shape the identities of women affected by the
condition.
METHODS: A cross-sectional study with qualitative and quantitative components was
used to explore the experiences of Tanzanian women living with obstetric fistula
and those of their husbands. The study was conducted at the Comprehensive
Community Based Rehabilitation Tanzania hospital in Dar es Salaam, Bugando
Medical Centre in Mwanza, and Mpwapwa district, in Dodoma region. Conveniently
selected samples of 16 women were interviewed, and 151 additional women responded
to a questionnaire. In addition, 12 women affected by obstetric fistula and six
husbands of these affected women participated in a focus group discussions. Data
were analysed using content data analysis framework and statistical package for
the social sciences (SPSS) version 15 for Microsoft windows.
RESULTS: The study revealed a deep sense of loss. Loss of body control, loss of
the social roles as women and wives, loss of integration in social life, and loss
of dignity and self-worth were located at the core of these experiences.
CONCLUSION: The women living with obstetric fistula experience a deep sense of
loss that had negative impact on their identity and quality of life.
Acknowledging affected women's real-life experiences is important in order to
understand the occurrence and management of obstetric fistula, as well as
prospects after treatment. This knowledge will help to improve women's sense of
self-worth and maintain their identity as women, wives, friends and community
members. Educational programmes to empower women socially and economically and
counselling of families of women living with obstetric fistula may help these
women receive medical and social support that is necessary.
