Experiences of social support among women presenting for obstetric fistula repair surgery in Tanzania

• Published in: International journal of women's health Vol. 8; pp. 429 - 439
• Main Authors: Dennis, Alexis C, Wilson, Sarah M, Mosha, Mary V, Masenga, Gileard G, Sikkema, Kathleen J, Terroso, Korrine E, Watt, Melissa H
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New Zealand Dove Medical Press Limited 01.01.2016; Taylor & Francis Ltd; Dove Medical Press
• Subjects: African languages; Childbirth & labor; Consent; Domestic violence; Fecal incontinence; Fistula; Fistulas; maternal morbidity; Medical research; Mental depression; Mental disorders; Mental health care; obstetric fistula; Obstetrics; Original Research; Patients; Qualitative research; Secondary schools; Social aspects; Social support; Surgery; Surveys; Tanzania; Women; Womens health; United States > US; South Africa; Tanzania; social support; obstetric fistula; maternal morbidity; Tanzania
• ISSN: 1179-1411; 1179-1411
• DOI: 10.2147/IJWH.S110202

An obstetric fistula is a childbirth injury resulting in uncontrollable leakage of urine and/or feces and can lead to physical and psychological challenges, including social isolation. Prior to and after fistula repair surgery, social support can help a woman to reintegrate into her community. The aim of this study was to preliminarily examine the experiences of social support among Tanzanian women presenting with obstetric fistula in the periods immediately preceding obstetric fistula repair surgery and following reintegration. The study used a mixed-methods design to analyze cross-sectional surveys (n=59) and in-depth interviews (n=20). Women reported widely varying levels of social support from family members and partners, with half of the sample reporting overall high levels of social support. For women experiencing lower levels of support, fistula often exacerbated existing problems in relationships, sometimes directly causing separation or divorce. Many women were assertive and resilient with regard to advocating for their fistula care and relationship needs. Our data suggest that while some women endure negative social experiences following an obstetric fistula and require additional resources and services, many women report high levels of social support from family members and partners, which may be harnessed to improve the holistic care for patients.