| dc.description.abstract |
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a gynecological health issue that negatively affects women’s lives globally and specifically in countries like Ethiopia where health care-related resources and infrastructures are limited. In remote areas of Ethiopia, women lack basic knowledge of POP and do not have the resources to access care and treatment that might be available. As a result, seeking treatment typically happens after years of suffering. Using a qualitative phenomenological method, this study addressed the treatment-seeking experiences for POP among women aged 30-60 in North Ethiopia. Fifteen women with POP were selected using purposive sampling at the University of Gondar referral hospital. Face-to-face interviews were completed and after being translated to English were transcribed. Data were then coded into categories and themes. Thirteen themes emerged via NVivo software. Ethiopian women with POP were motivated to seek treatment once symptoms became severe and impeded their lives physically, emotionally, or socially. Women also reported delaying treatment due to the embarrassment and fear associated with disclosing the disease as well as cultural and spiritual practices associated with seeking healing. Women who sought treatment early endured barriers including poor quality interactions with healthcare providers, financial strain, and long-distance traveling. The study sheds light on the importance of improving the quality of health care and health education relating to women’s health in Ethiopia so that women will be supported in seeking treatment earlier for POP. |
en_US |