Depression among women with obstetric fistula in Kenya
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Date
2011-10
Authors
Mutiso, S.
Weston, K.
Mwangi, J. W.
Qureshi, Z.
Beard, J.
Venkat, P.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Elsevier
Abstract
Objective
To establish the prevalence of depression and describe associated factors among fistula patients attending an obstetric fistula surgical camp in Kenya.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted focusing on obstetric fistula patients attending a national fistula camp held in August 2008 at Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain sociodemographic data and medical histories for all consenting patients before surgery. Depression measures were obtained using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9.
Results
Of the 70 women interviewed, 2 (2.9%) and 12 (17.1%) reported a history of psychiatric illness and suicidal ideations, respectively. Depression was present in 51 (72.9%) patients, with 18 (25.7%) meeting criteria for severe depression. Depression was significantly associated with women older than 20 years of age (P = 0.01), unemployment (P = 0.03), lack of social support following fistula (P = 0.04), and living with fistula for over 3 months (P = 0.01).
Conclusion
Women with obstetric fistula are predisposed to high levels of depression. A holistic management approach, including mental health care and family support, is recommended.
Description
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2011.04.015
Keywords
Depression, Holistic management, Obstetric fistula
Citation
International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics Volume 115, Issue 1, October 2011, Pages 31–33