Post-effects of obstetric fistula among women in Uganda; a case of Kitovu Mission Hospital, Masaka

Yovani Moses A. Lubaale, Makerere University
Jeniffer Nakilembe, Makerere University
Susan Dorcus Kambabazi Lubaale, PACE/PSI

Obstetrical fistula (OF) is one of the public health challenges which is affecting numerous girls and women every day and this condition leaves them in a state of despair. The objective of the study was to assess the post-surgery experiences of women aged 15-49 years who had received fistula treatment in Kitovu Mission Hospital and had been successfully treated/repaired of the condition. Both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods were used. Most OF victims were young and had never been exposed to family planning. Over 70% of the women received treatment after more than two years with 27.5% having had the repair after 10years. Delays in responding to the situation is the major reason why reintegration takes long for the women to be accepted in society. Their social life completely changed because of rejection from those who would have stood with them.