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- Title
Marital experiences of women with obstetric fistula: a systematic review of qualitative studies.
- Authors
Tembo, Nchimunya Nambala; Kwaleyela, Concepta; Mukwatokatowa, Patricia; Odland, Jon; Zulu, Joseph Mumba; Maimbolwa, Margaret C
- Abstract
Background/Aims: Obstetric fistula is a serious birthing injury with medicosocial consequences including infertility and marital disharmony. Obstetric fistula has been eliminated in developed countries but remains highly prevalent in Africa and Asia. The aim of this study was to identify and analyse the marital experiences of women with obstetric fistula in order to guide interventions to help women cope with their situation, as well as improving partner support towards women living with this condition. Methods: A range of electronic databases were searched for studies conducted worldwide, published between 2003 and 2018. English language publications were searched for using relevant keywords. Three main themes were identified based on the content of the interview questions and the respondents' views and experiences, and how these related to the study objectives. Results: A total of 33 studies were included. Three main themes in the marital experiences of women with obstetric fistulas were identified: 'loss of marriage' (n=25), 'marital and sexual life is no longer joyful' (n=17), and 'partner support' (n=22). Conclusions: Obstetric fistula can have significant impacts on a woman and her partner. Healthcare professionals should be aware of these concerns and surgical repair should be encouraged. Counselling should be provided for women with obstetric fistula and their partners.
- Subjects
PSYCHOLOGICAL adaptation; CINAHL database; MEDLINE; ONLINE information services; PSYCHOLOGY of Spouses; SYSTEMATIC reviews; MARITAL satisfaction; SOCIAL support; VAGINAL fistula; ATTITUDES toward illness
- Publication
African Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health, 2020, Vol 14, Issue 1, p1
- ISSN
1759-7374
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.12968/ajmw.2018.0009