Women's experiences of fistula-related stigma in Uganda: a conceptual framework to inform stigma-reduction interventions.

Women's experiences of fistula-related stigma in Uganda: a conceptual framework to inform stigma-reduction interventions. Cult Health Sex. 2019 Apr 30;:1-16 Authors: El Ayadi AM, Barageine JK, Miller S, Byamugisha J, Nalubwama H, Obore S, Korn A, Sukumar S, Kakaire O, Mwanje H, Lester F, Turan JM Abstract Fistula-related stigma is common. The absence of a unifying conceptual framework prevents a nuanced understanding of the nature of fistula-related stigma, comparison across contexts and the ability to contrast with other stigmas. It also hinders intervention development. We conducted in-depth interviews or focus groups with 60 women who had undergone fistula surgery 6-24 months prior at Mulago Hospital in Kampala, Uganda in 2014. Transcripts were analysed for experiences and consequences of enacted, anticipated and internalised stigma. Narratives revealed experiences with enacted stigma, including gossip, verbal abuse and social exclusion. Women also anticipated and feared stigma in the future. Internalised stigma reports revealed shame and low self-esteem: self-worth reduction, feeling disgraced and envisioning no future. Consequences included social isolation, changes to normal activities, non-disclosure and poor mental health. Refining stigma theory to specific conditions has resulted in a more nuanced understanding of stigma dimensions, manifestations, mechanisms and consequences, permitting comparison across contexts and popu...
Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality - Category: International Medicine & Public Health Authors: Tags: Cult Health Sex Source Type: research