Assessment of knowledge, enablers, and barriers to healthcare-seeking behaviours for urinary tract infections among pregnant women at Banadir Maternal and Child Hospital, Somalia

Fadumo Elmi Kadiye; Alem Desta  Wuneh; Akin-Tunde Ademola Odukogbe

doi:10.18203/2320-1770.ijrcog20253505

Authors

Fadumo Elmi Kadiye Reproductive Health Program, Pan African University Life and Earth Sciences Institute (including Health and Agriculture), Ibadan, Nigeria
Alem Desta Wuneh School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle P.O. Box 1871, Ethiopia
Akin-Tunde Ademola Odukogbe Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan/University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-1770.ijrcog20253505

Keywords:

Pregnancy, Knowledge, Mogadishu, Somalia, Cultural barriers, Healthcare-seeking behaviour, Urinary tract infections

Abstract

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common during pregnancy causing serious issue to both maternal and infantile health. However, little research has been conducted regarding what women know and do about UTIs in Somalia.

Methods: A cross sectional mixed-methods approach was employed in this study to obtain both quantitative data and qualitative findings of women knowledge, experiences, and health-seeking behaviours related to UTIs. Between August and December 2024, 200 women participated in a quantitative survey, among which 21 were selected for qualitative interviews.

Results: The majority (55%) of women reported having symptoms related to UTI, with the most common symptoms being fever or chills (54%), lower abdominal pain (50%), and frequent urination (42%). Only 33.5% had tested positive for UTIs in their urine. Before seeking medical attention, a large percentage of women (51%) turned to traditional remedies, such as camel milk and herbal teas. The main obstacles to accessing healthcare were transportation concerns (20.5%) and financial limitations (49.5%). Some people believed that spiritual factors caused UTIs, while others believed that poor hygiene (43%) or sexual activity (41.5%) were the main causes. The qualitative analysis revealed that people's understanding of UTIs varied; many were aware of the symptoms but not the causes or complications. Cultural factors influenced healthcare-seeking, with women frequently avoiding medical care out of fear of judgment and stigma.

Conclusions: The study underscores the need of better UTI education; the integration of biomedical and traditional practices can help in early detection and seeking healthcare at the appropriate time.

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