Psychosocial experiences of subjects with vesicovaginal fistula: A qualitative study

• Main Author: David Nwoba Nweke
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Makhdoomi Printers 2017-01-01
• Series: Global Journal of Medicine and Public Health
• Subjects: Experiences; Fistula; Psychosocial; Qualitative
• Online Access: http://gjmedph.com/uploads/O5-Vo6No1.pdf

Introduction Subjects with vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) are often stigmatized and discriminated against. This may impose on them adverse psychosocial experiences. Objectives This study determined the psychosocial experiences of subjects with VVF at National Obstetric Fistula Centre Abakaliki, South east Nigeria. Methods Focus group discussion (FGD) was used to explore the psychological and social experiences of 100 subjects with VVF. Results Subjects with VVF were faced with myriads of psychosocial problems which included perceived poor social support, helplessness, sadness, suicidal thoughts, feelings of worthlessness, social withdrawal, shame, stigmatization and fear of divorce. Conclusion Majority of the subjects (95%) with VVF were rural dwellers and there were several psychosocial problems among them. Proper liaison between VVF treatment centres and mental health personnel should be encouraged. This will improve prognosis.