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Erschienen in: International Journal of Behavioral Medicine 5/2015

01.10.2015

Psychological Symptoms Among Obstetric Fistula Patients Compared to Gynecology Outpatients in Tanzania

verfasst von: Sarah M. Wilson, Kathleen J. Sikkema, Melissa H. Watt, Gileard G. Masenga

Erschienen in: International Journal of Behavioral Medicine | Ausgabe 5/2015

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Abstract

Background

Obstetric fistula is a childbirth injury prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa that causes uncontrollable leaking of urine and/or feces. Research has documented the social and psychological sequelae of obstetric fistula, including mental health dysfunction and social isolation.

Purpose

This cross-sectional study sought to quantify the psychological symptoms and social support in obstetric fistula patients, compared with a patient population of women without obstetric fistula.

Method

Participants were gynecology patients (N = 144) at the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center in Moshi, Tanzania, recruited from the Fistula Ward (n = 54) as well as gynecology outpatient clinics (n = 90). Measures included previously validated psychometric questionnaires, administered orally by Tanzanian nurses. Outcome variables were compared between obstetric fistula patients and gynecology outpatients, controlling for background demographic variables and multiple comparisons.

Results

Compared to gynecology outpatients, obstetric fistula patients reported significantly higher symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, somatic complaints, and maladaptive coping. They also reported significantly lower social support.

Conclusion

Obstetric fistula patients present for repair surgery with more severe psychological distress than gynecology outpatients. In order to address these mental health concerns, clinicians should engage obstetric fistula patients with targeted mental health interventions.
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Metadaten
Titel
Psychological Symptoms Among Obstetric Fistula Patients Compared to Gynecology Outpatients in Tanzania
verfasst von
Sarah M. Wilson
Kathleen J. Sikkema
Melissa H. Watt
Gileard G. Masenga
Publikationsdatum
01.10.2015
Verlag
Springer US
Erschienen in
International Journal of Behavioral Medicine / Ausgabe 5/2015
Print ISSN: 1070-5503
Elektronische ISSN: 1532-7558
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12529-015-9466-2

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