Knowledge of Obstetric Fistula and Its Associated Factors Among Women of Childbearing Age in Buno Bedele Zone, Southwest Ethiopia: A Cross‐Sectional Study

Abstract

Background and Aims: Obstetric fistulas are one of the most serious and catastrophic complications that occur during childbirth. Increasing awareness among women may contribute positively to its reduction and prompt treatment initiation. Although limited studies have been conducted on the knowledge of obstetric fistulas, they were mainly conducted among women who sought care at health institutions. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of obstetric fistulas and associated factors in Southwestern Ethiopia. Methods: This was a community-based cross-sectional study of women of reproductive age in the Buno Bedele Zone between August 26 and September 26, 2021. Multistage sampling techniques were employed to select 612 participants. Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered through interviews. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify associated factors. Results: About 48.3% (95% CI = 43.9, 52.2) of women of childbearing age were found to have good overall knowledge of obstetric fistula. Factors influencing the knowledge of obstetric fistula included urban residency (AOR = 4.23, 95% CI: 2.09, 8.57), attending primary school (AOR = 4.43, 95% CI: 2.25, 8.69), presence of media in the household (AOR = 3.65, 95% CI: 1.84, 7.25), attending postnatal care (AOR = 2.65, 95% CI: 1.22, 5.74), participation in pregnant women's conferences (AOR = 2.24, 95% CI: 1.19, 4.21), and receiving education on obstetric fistula (AOR = 3.64, 95% CI: 1.95, 6.79). Conclusions: Less than half of the women had good knowledge of obstetric fistulas. Residence, educational status, media access, history of postnatal care, and pregnant women's conferences were identified as factors affecting the knowledge of obstetric fistula. Thus, health managers and professionals must work together to provide health education on obstetric fistula at each maternal service delivery point, at pregnant women's conferences, and through the media.