Obstetric Fistula "Disease" and Ensuing Care: Patients' Views in West-Africa.
- African Journal of Reproductive Health , 19 : 112-23
Résumé
We explored obstetric fistula patients' real-life experience of care in modern Health System. Our aim was to analyze how these women's views impacted their care uptake and coping. We conducted 67 in-depth interviews with 35 fistula patients or former patients in 5 fistula repair centers within referral hospitals in Mali and Niger. Perceptions of obstetric fistula influenced the care experience and vice versa. Obstetric fistula was viewed as a severe chronic disease due to length of care process, limitation of surgery and persisting physical and moral suffering. We highlight the opportunity to build on patients' views on obstetric fistula trauma and care in order to implement an effective holistic care process.
Mots-clés
obstetric fistula, patient perspectives, care experience, fistula repair, coping, holistic care, health system access, West Africa, Mali, Niger