Evaluation of the quality of life of women with obstetric fistula in Kinshasa
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Abstract
Background-Obstetric fistula is a major maternal health problem that significantly affects women both physically and mentally. The objective of the study was to assess the quality of life of women with obstetric fistula and to identify the socio-demographic factors.
Methods - We used a survey method supported by the McGill Quality of Life Scale, which we administered to a sample of 56 women with obstetric fistula managed at the Fistula Clinic in Kinshasa.
Results -In terms of socio-demographic variables, the study sample consisted of 20 women under the age of 30, 15 aged 30-39 and 21 aged 40-49. There are also 6 illiterate women, 20 state graduates, 16 graduates (baccalaureate +3) and 14 bachelor graduates (baccalaureate+5). In terms of marital status, there are 30 married women, 16 divorced women and 10 single women. Finally, there are 7 women who have not had a caesarean section, 40 who have had a caesarean section and 9 who have had two caesareans. The variables age and marital status each influenced one dimension of quality of life (p < 0.05). Women with obstetric fistula show a high level of general unhappiness (Mean = 1.00; SD = 0.00) and a feeling of psychological unhappiness (Mean = 2.40; SD = 1.15). They have a strong sense of physical (Mean = 2.68; SD =0.77), existential (Mean = 2.80; SD =1.06) and social well-being (Mean = 3.10; SD =0.92).
Conclusion -obstetric fistula negatively affects the general and psychological wellbeing of women treated at the Fistula Clinic in Kinshasa.
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