Coping Strategies among Women Living with Obstetric Fistula Amidst Stigma and Social Isolation at the State Specialist Hospital, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates the experiences of women living with obstetric fistula in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria, focusing on the stigmatization and social isolation they face. The primary objectives are to assess the prevalence of obstetric fistula, examine the coping mechanisms of affected women, and evaluate the impact of stigma on their social interactions and mental health. Social Stigma Theory, Feminist Theory, and the Health Belief Model (HBM) were used to explain the study. Employing a mixed-method approach, data were collected from 75 respondents through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The findings revealed that many women experience obstetric fistula during early adolescence, primarily due to prolonged labour. Despite the debilitating effects of the condition, most respondents did not seek medical treatment and relied on family support, leading to significant social isolation and stigmatization. The study highlighted a general lack of awareness about obstetric fistula, particularly among younger and less educated women, exacerbating their feelings of humiliation and abandonment. Coping strategies were largely limited to seeking emotional support, with minimal engagement in professional counselling or support groups. This research emphasizes the urgent need for targeted awareness campaigns, improved healthcare access, and psychosocial support to combat stigma and enhance the reintegration of affected women into their communities. Overall, the findings underscore the intricate relationship between obstetric fistula, social stigma, and the psychological and economic challenges faced by these women, necessitating comprehensive interventions to improve their quality of life.