ASSESSMENT OF BARRIERS IN SEEKING TREATMENT AMONG WOMEN WITH OBSTETRIC FISTULA IN JOS NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF PLATEAU STATE
Jummai Musa Magaji, J. O Ukawuilulu, PhD and Ambrose W. Ogidi, PhD
Volume 4 Issue 1
Abstract
Obstetric fistula is a debilitating complication of childbirth that affects many young women in developing societies. Disparities in access to and utilization of quality healthcare services contribute to the barriers women face in seeking treatment for obstetric fistula. This paper aims to examine these barriers and propose recommendations for improvement. The study adopts the health belief model as its theoretical framework and employs a cross-sectional descriptive survey design in Jos North L.G.A. A sample size of 400 women of reproductive age (15-49 years) was selected using the Taro Yamane formula, and data were collected through questionnaires. Out of the 400 distributed questionnaires, 375 were retrieved, and 367 were found to be valid for analysis using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Key informant interviews were also conducted. The findings reveal that barriers include poor knowledge of available health services, lack of awareness about treatment centers, lack of spouse approval to seek treatment, fear of treatment costs, fear of stigmatization, and cultural beliefs favouring divine healing. The study recommends increasing public awareness, ensuring appropriate referrals to treatment centers, fostering effective doctor-patient relationships, providing counseling to address stigma, and engaging religious and traditional leaders in sensitization efforts. Supportive measures from husbands and healthcare personnel are also essential. These recommendations aim to enhance access to and utilisation of healthcare services for women with obstetric fistula. Keywords: Obstetric Fistula, Women, Treatment, Health Seeking Behaviour Reproduction
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