Healthcare needs and treatment-seeking patterns of women living with obstetric fistula: a qualitative study in the Tamale Metropolis, Ghana.

INTRODUCTION

Obstetric fistula is a form of maternal morbidity that can lead to prolonged disability and poor quality of life. This study explored the healthcare needs and treatment-seeking patterns of women living with obstetric fistula in the Tamale Metropolis.

METHODS

A qualitative phenomenology design was used. The target respondents (women with obstetric fistula and their healthcare providers) were recruited using purposive sampling. 11 in-depth and three key-informant interviews were conducted with the women and healthcare providers, respectively, between January and March 2024. The data were audio-recorded, transcribed and manually analysed using thematic content analysis.

RESULTS

The results showed that improved access to quality antenatal care (ANC), skilled healthcare practitioners with expertise in fistula repair, appropriate health facilities and adequate fistula treatment services were the common healthcare needs of the respondents. When seeking treatment for obstetric fistula, the participants tried traditional methods such as spiritual therapies and herbs before finally reporting to the hospital. Extended family members and husbands were the major sources of support for women with obstetric fistula.

CONCLUSION

It is critical to give obstetric fistula treatment a top priority and to allocate enough resources to enhance both the general well-being of women, and the quality and accessibility of fistula treatment. We, therefore, recommend effective education on fistula prevention and treatment during ANC, establishment of more fistula repair centres, increased training and deployment of specialists for fistula management at the regional and district levels, and a dedicated public funding source for obstetric fistula treatment.