Knowledge, experiences, and practices of women affected by female genital schistosomiasis in rural Madagascar

Background: Female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) is a neglected manifestation of urogenital schistosomiasis caused by S. haematobium. The disease presents with symptoms such as pelvic pain, vaginal discharge and bleeding and menstruation disorders, and might lead to infertility and pregnancy complications. The perspectives of women with FGS have not been studied systematically. Methods: We performed a qualitative study in the Ambanja district in Northwest Madagascar. FGS was diagnosed by colposcopy. Seventy-six women with FGS participated either in a focus group discussion (N=60) or in an individual semi-structured interview (N= 16). The data were analysed using Mayring´s qualitative content analysis. The aim of the study was to understand knowledge, experiences, and practices of women with FGS. Results: Knowledge on how the disease is acquired varied and ideas on prevention remained vague. Patients suffered from vaginal discharge and pelvic complaints. Some women expressed unbearable...