Injured bodies,damaged lives: experiences and narratives of Kenyan women with obstetric fistula and Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (2017)
This study is a Exploratory research regarding All FGM/C with the following characteristics:
Author(s): Mwanri,L. & Gatwiri,G. J.
FGM/C Type(s): All
Health area of focus: None.
Objective: The aim of the larger study was to explore the experiences of women living with fistulas in Kenya,experiences that are hidden,inaccessible,suppressed and ignored.
Study Population: Women living with obstetric fistulas
Findings: Three of the thirty participants claimed that health care professionals advised them that FGM/C contributed to their protracted and obstructed labor. They reported major obstetric difficulties,such as the development of obstetric fistulas,decreased libido,poor quality of life,and adverse maternal and infant health outcomes,including death. The women claimed that fistula and accompanying loss of physiological functions,such as uncontrollable flow of body wastes,resulted in rejection by spouses,families,friends,and communities. Rejection led to despair,job loss,increased indifference,decreased self-esteem and image,as well as a loss of identity and social sociocultural cohesion. FGM/C is prevalent in traditional,patriarchal African communities. Although the ritual is intended to unite community members and mark a rite of passage,it may have negative health and social effects. Some women with fistula report that FGM/C caused their fistula. To address FGM/C and possibly lower the incidence of obstetric fistulas in Kenya and elsewhere,concerted efforts that incorporate feminist conceptions of society,as well as multisectoral,multidisciplinary,and community development approaches,are required. Government and nongovernment organizations must be involved in the formulation of legislative,gender-sensitive policies that safeguard women from FGM/C. In addition,policymakers must be at the forefront of efforts to improve the lives of women affected by FGM/C.
Geographical coverage
Region(s):Eastern Africa
Country(ies):Kenya