Knowledge of obstetric fistula and its associated factors among women of reproductive age in Northwestern Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study

Abstract Background: Obstetric fistula is one of the major maternal health challenges in low and middle-income countries, especially in Ethiopia where child marriage and access to a health facility are main challenges. Obstetric fistula is common among teenage mothers that results in a vast social, economic and cultural sequel. In Ethiopia, particularly in the study area, there is a paucity of research evidence on women's knowledge about obstetric fistula. Therefore, this study aimed to assess women’s knowledge about obstetric fistula and its associated factors at Banja District, Northwestern Ethiopia.Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted at Banja District, Northwestern Ethiopia. Systematic sampling method was used to recruit 784 women in the reproductive age from six rural and one urban kebeles. Data were collected using pre-tested structured questionnaires through face-to-face interview method. Descriptive statistics, binary and multivariable logistic regression analysis were performed by using SPSS version 24.Results: Of the study participants who had good knowledge about obstetric fistula was found to be 36.4% (95%CI: 32.9%-39.7%). Women who had completed primary education (AOR:3.47, 95%CI:2.01-5.98), secondary and above education (AOR:3.30, 95%CI:1.88-5.80), being a student (AOR: 6.78, 95%CI:3.88-11.86), get counseling about obstetric fistula (AOR:6.22, 95%CI: 3.78-10.24), participated in pregnant women’s conference (AOR:3.36, 95%CI: 1.99-5.66), had antenatal care follow-up (AOR: 2.40, 95% CI: 1.39-4.13), being an urban resident (AOR: 3.19, 95% CI: 1.33-7.66), and having access to TV/Radio (AOR:1.68, 95%CI:1.10-2.60) were significantly associated with women's good knowledge about obstetric fistula.Conclusions: One-third of women have good knowledge about obstetric fistula. Therefore, empowering women in education, promoting antenatal care, and reinforcing pregnant women's counselling conference platforms could substantially optimize women's knowledge of obstetric fistula