Sources of Informal Support for women experiencing Obstetrical Fistula: A Focused Ethnographic Study

• Author / Creator

  Sullivan, Ginger Lt

• Obstetric fistula is a devastating complication of childbirth and a neglected global health issue. Ghana, a low-income country in sub-Saharan country is plagued with high maternal mortality and morbidity rates including an estimated 500 to 1000 new cases of obstetric fistula every year. Despite the fact that Safe Motherhood initiatives have existed in the country for more than three decades women continue to suffer. This qualitative study explores the experiences of women who have or have had an OF, and those close to these women. In depth interviews were conducted with 14 participants. Findings revealed key themes, which included familial, economic, spousal, formal and self-support. Recommendations include strategies focused on improving access to surgical repair treatment for women living with obstetric fistula, directing resources and efforts to creating a dedicated specialist fistula centre in Tamale, and providing education to front line workers such as nurses, midwives, and public health workers on strategies to prevent obstetric fistula and safe motherhood practices.

• Subjects / Keywords

  • Ghana
  • Maternal health
  • Obstetric fistula

• Graduation date

  Spring 2014

• Type of Item

  Thesis

• Degree

  Master of Nursing

• DOI

  https://doi.org/10.7939/R3930P35Q

• License

  This thesis is made available by the University of Alberta Libraries with permission of the copyright owner solely for non-commercial purposes. This thesis, or any portion thereof, may not otherwise be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the copyright owner, except to the extent permitted by Canadian copyright law.