The Biopsychosocial Impact of Vesicovaginal Fistula Repair: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Abstract
Background: Great efforts have been made in recent years to increase the possibility of vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) repair so as to holistically improve the quality of life of the affected women. This research was aimed at collecting, identifying and qualitatively analyzing the post-operative VVF data, including long-term clinical, psychological and social outcomes of vesicovaginal fistula repair.
Methods: This was a cross sectional study using a questionnaire designed by the researchers to identify and qualitatively assess the post-operative biopsychosocial implications of VVF repair in women previously suffering with multiple fistula afflictions. Interviews took place over a 4-month period between May 2013 and August 2014 inclusive in Kitovu Hospital at Masaka in Uganda during the VVF Outpatient Clinics. The women who attended the VVF Outpatient Clinic completed the comparative questionnaire, either by themselves or via a translator. This data was qualitatively analyzed by the researchers from a pre- and post-operative perspective. The biopsychosocial outcomes were measured to assess holistic improvement in the patient’s quality of life.
Results: A total of post-repair 43 women attended the VVF Outpatient Clinic. Patients who underwent repair experienced an overall marked improvement in all aspects of their lives, most prominently where 98% of women experienced a post-operative improvement in urinary incontinence, depression, shame and social isolation. This study also identified a 42% decrease in the formerly widespread social stigma associated with women who had a fistula.
Conclusion: The results reflect positively on the impact, which repair has on these women’s quality of life, as well as on the education and campaign efforts pioneered by the medical and lay community. VVF repair undoubtedly holistically improves these women’s lives.
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