Psycho-Social Consequences of Vesico-Vaginal and Recto-Vaginal Fistula

The study sought to investigate psychosocial consequences of Vesico-Vaginal and Recto-Vaginal Fistula of young women in western Kenya. Population of study (women of 15 to 24 years) from six counties of Western Kenya was about 1,789,722. Sample of 1,790 cases was used for the study. Questionnaires, interviews, document analysis, and focus group discussions were used for data collection. Validity and reliability was assured thorough pilot study in 1 Division. Data was sorted according to type and category; with qualitative data being analyzed and trends established and conclusions drawn. Statistical software (SPSS Version 20) was used for data analysis. Study established that Vesico-Vaginal and Recto-Vaginal Fistula among young women in Western Kenya was a major health problem that required comprehensive and timely intervention strategies both from health providers, social workers and community counsellors. Study also was used for identifying needs of fistula survivors and recommended development of holistic reintegration model that would be important contribution to design, implementation and monitoring of preventive strategies of Obstetric Fistula in Western Kenya.

Autorentext

Habiba Mohamed is counseling psychologist, and executive director of Women and Development Against Distress in Africa (WADADIA. She is trained veterinarian and social worker. She has Bachelor of Counseling Psychology from Mt. Kenya University and is doing Masters in same course there. She is part time consultant for One by One Fight Fistula of US.