Abstract

Knowledge of Risk Factors and Perceived Effects of Vesicovaginal Fistula among Primigravida Attending Antenatal Care in Mater Misericordiae Hospital Afikpo North of Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Author(s):Justin Agorye Ingwu, Odochi Nwosu, Paulina Chikeme, Ijeoma Maduokalam and Israel Chidinma Egbichi

Introduction: Vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) is a major cause of severe morbidity and potential mortality, which can result in marital disruption, rejection, and eventual destitution. The problem of vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) remains a ravaging scourge in Nigeria. The study was designed to determine the knowledge of risk factors and perceived effects of vesicovaginal fistula among primigravida attending antenatal care in Mater Misericordiae Hospital Afikpo North of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Objective: The objectives of the study were to determine the level of awareness of risk factors, assess perceived psycho-social effects, and determine the preventive measures of vesicovaginal fistula risk factors. Methods and materials: A descriptive survey design was used for the study among 138 pregnant women. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The data was presented in tables using frequency and percentages. Results: The result shows that 51 (40.8%) of pregnant women have below the level of knowledge of the risk factors of vesicovaginal fistula. Majority of respondents 118 (94.4%) mentioned depression as a psycho-socio effect of vesicovaginal fistula, respondents have a good perception of vesicovaginal fistula preventive measures with a mean score of 3.56+0.58. Conclusion: It was concluded that intensified health education should be directed towards discouragement of early marriage, and religious gathering should be used to enhance education on vesicovaginal fistula risk factors, health implication, and preventive measures.

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