Obstetric Fistula: Connecting the Interface between Social Work and Social Support Services for the Management and Reintegration of Victims in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Abstract

ABSTRACT Obstetric fistula is a chronic health condition that leaves affected women medically, socially, physically, and psychologically battered and traumatized. Those with the health condition live their lives as a social recluse because of the unpleasant smell the disease produces in them thereby making people avoid them. Adequate social support to those affected by the disease from all quarters has helped in the management and prevention of the health condition. This study, therefore, aims at exploring and connecting the link between social work and social support in the management of obstetric fistula in Nigeria and the reintegration of survivors into the society. The study adopted a qualitative approach using interviews and focus group discussions to collect data from 51 participants, and the data were thematically analyzed. The results of the study highlighted the potential roles of social workers in enhancing social support for the management and reintegration of victims of obstetric fistula in Nigeria. The findings also revealed challenges confronting social workers in enhancing social support in fistula victims. Findings from the study have implication for policy development, hence, the full involvement and expansion of the coverage of social workers in maternal and public health is recommended.