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

ABSTRACT:

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

SUBMITTER: Agamba S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12410638 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature