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Mwakawanga DL, Massae AF, Kohli N, Lukumay GG, Rohloff CT, Mushy SE, Mgopa LR, Mkoka DA, Mkonyi E, Trent M, Ross MW, Rosser BRS, Connor J. The need for and acceptability of a curriculum to train nursing and medical students in the sexual healthcare of clients with female genital mutilation/cutting in Tanzania. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:198. [PMID: 38532377 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-03034-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) is tied to one of the most conservative cultures in the Mediterranean and Sub-Saharan Africa. More than 200 million girls and women in 30 African, Asian and the middle Eastern countries have undergone FGM/C. However, healthcare professionals are not adequately trained to prevent and manage FGM/C-related complications including sexual health problems. This study aimed to assess the need and acceptability of a curriculum to train nursing and medical students in the sexual healthcare of clients with FGM/C in Tanzania. METHODS We used a descriptive and cross sectional study design to collect and analyse information from 271 medical and 137 nursing students in Tanzania. A Qualtrics online survey was used to obtain quantitative data on training interest, previous training received, and the curriculum delivery method. Open-ended questions were used to explore their insights on significance to obtain the necessary competencies to treat and prevent FGM/C. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze quantitative data while qualitative data were analyzed using a thematic approach. RESULTS Almost half of the participants reported they had little to no training in sexual healthcare for women with FGM/C (47%). In all, 82.4% reported the training to be acceptable. Following thematic analysis of open-ended questions, participants expressed a desire to improve their competencies to meet the current and future sexual and psychological health needs of women and girls who have undergone FGM/C. CONCLUSION It is a necessary and acceptable to develop a curriculum to train healthcare students to diagnose, treat and prevent sexual health complications related to FGM/C. In our study, designing a culturally sensitive curriculum and its delivery method, that includes practical sessions with simulated patients, was considered the most beneficial and favorable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorkasi L Mwakawanga
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, United Nations Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Agnes F Massae
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, United Nations Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Nidhi Kohli
- University of Minnesota, #300, 1300 S. 2nd St., Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA
| | - Gift Gadiel Lukumay
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, United Nations Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Corissa T Rohloff
- University of Minnesota, #300, 1300 S. 2nd St., Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA
| | - Stella Emmanuel Mushy
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, United Nations Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Lucy R Mgopa
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, United Nations Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Dickson Ally Mkoka
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, United Nations Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ever Mkonyi
- University of Minnesota, #300, 1300 S. 2nd St., Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA
| | - Maria Trent
- Johns Hopkins University, 200 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Michael W Ross
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, United Nations Rd, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - B R Simon Rosser
- University of Minnesota, #300, 1300 S. 2nd St., Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA.
| | - Jennifer Connor
- University of Minnesota, #300, 1300 S. 2nd St., Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA
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Massae AF, Mgopa LR, Bonilla ZE, Mohammed I, Rosser BRS, Mushy SE, Ross MW, Mwakawanga DL, Mkonyi E, Lukumay GG, Wadley J, Mkoka DA, Trent M. Addressing sexual health concerns in Tanzania: perceived barriers among healthcare professionals and students in the "training for health professionals" study. Cult Health Sex 2024:1-15. [PMID: 38284804 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2024.2306227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Little is known about the factors that may prevent healthcare professionals as key stakeholders from exploring sexual health issues in Tanzania. This study examined healthcare professionals' perspectives on the barriers to addressing sexual health concerns in practice. In June 2019, we conducted an exploratory qualitative study involving 18 focus group discussions among healthcare professionals (n = 60) and students (n = 61) in the health professions (midwifery, nursing, medicine) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Study participants and design were purposively selected and stratified. We used a focus group discussion guide in Kiswahili. Data were transcribed in Kiswahili and translated into English. A thematic analysis approach was used for data analysis. Two themes were developed: (1) differences between health care professional and patient socio-demographic characteristics; (2) health care system and patients' backgrounds, such as communication barriers, lack of confidentiality and privacy within health facilities, type of clinical presentation and complaint, patient behaviours, and their clinical background. Several key barriers prevented sexual health communication between healthcare professionals and patients, affecting the quality of sexual health service delivery. Additional sexual health clinical training is warranted for health professions students and professionals to optimise sexual health care delivery in a culturally conservative country like Tanzania.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes F Massae
- School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Lucy R Mgopa
- School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Zobeida E Bonilla
- School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of MN, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Inari Mohammed
- School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of MN, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - B R Simon Rosser
- School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of MN, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Stella E Mushy
- School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Michael W Ross
- School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of MN, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Dorkasi L Mwakawanga
- School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ever Mkonyi
- School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of MN, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Gift G Lukumay
- School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - James Wadley
- Counseling and Human Services Department, Lincoln University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Dickson A Mkoka
- School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Maria Trent
- Schools of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Mwakawanga DL, Rimoy M, Mwanga F, Massae AF, Mushy SE, Kisaka L, Komba N, Mabada L, Mlay E, Mwakalinga E, Mwasha L, Temba FF, Sirili N. Strengthening midwives' competencies for addressing maternal and newborn mortality in Tanzania: Lessons from Midwifery Emergency Skills Training (MEST) project. Midwifery 2023; 122:103695. [PMID: 37119672 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2023.103695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), maternal and infant mortality remains a significant problem. Inadequate healthcare provider competencies, including those of midwives, are cited as one of the major contributors to the high maternal and newborn mortality rates. Thus, enhancing the skills of midwives is a prerequisite for enhancing positive maternal and newborn health outcomes. This study describes the lessons learned from a Midwifery Emergencies Skills Training (MEST) project implemented in Tanzania between 2013 and 2018. METHODS An exploratory qualitative study was used to purposefully recruit and interview twelve health facility in-charges and eighteen midwives from twelve selected health facilities in six districts of Tanzania mainland to discover their perceptions about the midwifery practice after MEST training. The data were transcribed verbatim and analysed with qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Four categories were generated from the analysis (i) enhanced knowledge and skills in the provision of midwifery care and management of obstetric emergencies, (ii) improved midwives' communication skills, (iii) increased trust and support between midwives and community and (iv) transformed attitudes of midwives toward continued professional development (CPD). CONCLUSION MEST enhanced the knowledge and skills of midwives in the management of obstetric emergencies and referral protocol practice. However, notable gaps remain in the capacity of midwives to provide human rights-based respectful maternity care. Continued professional development for nurses and midwives through training, mentorship and supervision programs is recommended for improving maternal and newborn health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorkasi L Mwakawanga
- School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O Box 65001 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
| | - Martha Rimoy
- Tanzania Midwives Association, P.O Box 65524 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Feddy Mwanga
- Tanzania Midwives Association, P.O Box 65524 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Agnes F Massae
- School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O Box 65001 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Stella E Mushy
- School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O Box 65001 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Lucy Kisaka
- The Aga Khan University, School of Nursing and Midwifery, P.O Box 38129 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Nicodem Komba
- Tanzania Midwives Association, P.O Box 65524 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; Muhimbili National Hospital, P.O Box 65000 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Lucy Mabada
- Tanzania Midwives Association, P.O Box 65524 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ecstasy Mlay
- Muhimbili National Hospital, P.O Box 65000 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Loveluck Mwasha
- Tanzania Midwives Association, P.O Box 65524 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; The Aga Khan University, School of Nursing and Midwifery, P.O Box 38129 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Nathanael Sirili
- School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O Box 65013, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Lukumay GG, Mgopa LR, Mushy SE, Rosser BRS, Massae AF, Mkonyi E, Mohammed I, Mwakawanga DL, Trent M, Wadley J, Ross MW, Bonilla Z, Leshabari S. Community myths and misconceptions about sexual health in Tanzania: Stakeholders' views from a qualitative study in Dar es Salaam Tanzania. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0264706. [PMID: 36763616 PMCID: PMC9916544 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual and reproductive health problems are one of the top five risk factors for disability in the developing world. The rates of sexual health problems in most African countries are overwhelming, which is why HIV and other STIs are still such a challenge in sub-Saharan Africa. Talking about sex in most African countries is a taboo, leading to common myths and misconceptions that ultimately impact community sexual health. METHODS In this study, we conducted 11 key stakeholder individual interviews with community, religious, political, and health leaders (sexual health stakeholders) in Tanzania. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyze all the materials. RESULTS Two main categories merged from the analysis. The first category, "Ambiguities about sexual health" focused on societal and political misconceptions and identified ten myths or misconceptions common in Tanzania. Stakeholders highlighted the confusion that happens when different information about sexual health is presented from two different sources (e.g., community leaders/peers and political leaders), which leaves the community and community leaders unsure which one is reliable. The second category, "Practical dilemmas in serving clients", addressed a range of professional and religious dilemmas in addressing sexual health concerns. This included the inability of religious leaders and health care providers to provide appropriate sexual health care because of internal or external influences. CONCLUSION Myths and misconceptions surrounding sexual health can prevent communities from adequately addressing sexual health concerns, and make it more difficult for healthcare providers to comfortably provide sexual health care to patients and communities. Stakeholders affirmed a need to develop a sexual health curriculum for medical, nursing and midwifery students because of the lack of education in this area. Such a curriculum needs to address nine common myths which were identified through the interviews.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gift G. Lukumay
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Lucy R. Mgopa
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Stella E. Mushy
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - B. R. Simon Rosser
- University of Minnesota, School of Public Health, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Agnes F. Massae
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ever Mkonyi
- University of Minnesota, School of Public Health, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Inari Mohammed
- University of Minnesota, School of Public Health, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | | | - Maria Trent
- Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, MD, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - James Wadley
- School of Adult and Continuing Education, Lincoln University, Baltimore Pike, PA, United States of America
| | - Michael W. Ross
- University of Minnesota, School of Public Health, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Zobeida Bonilla
- University of Minnesota, School of Public Health, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Sebalda Leshabari
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Massae AF, Larsson M, Leshabari S, Mbekenga C, Pembe AB, Svanberg AS. Fear of childbirth: validation of the Kiswahili version of Wijma delivery expectancy/experience questionnaire versions A and B in Tanzania. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:882. [PMID: 36447188 PMCID: PMC9707257 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-05134-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fear of childbirth is common both before and after childbirth, often leading to complications in mother and new-born. The Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaires (W-DEQ) are commonly used to measure fear of childbirth among women before (version A) and after childbirth (version B). The tools are not yet validated in the Tanzanian context. This study aimed to validate the reliability, validity, and factorial structure of their Kiswahili translations. METHODS A longitudinal study was conducted in six public health facilities in the Pwani region, Tanzania. In all, 694 pregnant and 625 postnatal women were concurrently selected and responded to W-DEQ-A and W-DEQ-B. Validation involved: translating the English questionnaires into Kiswahili; expert rating of the relevancy of the Kiswahili versions' items; computing content validity ratio; piloting the tools; data collection; statistical analysis with reliability evaluated using Cronbach's alpha and the intraclass correlation coefficient. Tool validity was assessed using factor analysis, convergent and discriminant validity. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were conducted on data collected using W-DEQ-A and W-DEQ-B, respectively. RESULTS Exploratory factor analysis revealed seven factors contributing to 50% of the total variation. Four items did not load to any factor and were deleted. The factors identified were: fear; lack of self-efficacy; lack of positive anticipation; isolation; concerns for the baby; negative emotions; lack of positive behaviour. The factors correlated differently with each other and with the total scores. Both Kiswahili versions with 33 items had good internal consistency, with Cronbach's alphas of .83 and .85, respectively. The concerns for the baby factor showed both convergent and discriminant validity. The other six factors showed some problems with convergent validity. The final model from the confirmatory factor analysis yielded 29 items with good psychometric properties (χ2/df = 2.26, p = < .001, RMSEA = .045, CFI = .90 and TLI = .81). CONCLUSIONS The Kiswahili W-DEQ-A-Revised and W-DEQ-B-Revised are reliable tools and measure fear of childbirth with a multifactorial structure, encompassing seven factors with 29 items. They are recommended for measuring fear of childbirth among pregnant and postnatal Tanzanian women. Further studies are needed to address the inconsistent convergent validity in the revised versions and assess the psychometric properties of W-DEQ-A among pregnant women across gestational ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes F. Massae
- grid.8993.b0000 0004 1936 9457Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden ,grid.25867.3e0000 0001 1481 7466Department of Community Health Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. BOX 65001, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Margareta Larsson
- grid.8993.b0000 0004 1936 9457Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sebalda Leshabari
- grid.25867.3e0000 0001 1481 7466Department of Community Health Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. BOX 65001, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Columba Mbekenga
- grid.442446.40000 0004 0648 0463Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Hubert Kairuki Memorial University, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Andrea B. Pembe
- grid.25867.3e0000 0001 1481 7466Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Agneta S. Svanberg
- grid.8993.b0000 0004 1936 9457Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Mgopa LR, Ross MW, Lukumay GG, Mushy SE, Mkony E, Massae AF, Mwakawanga DL, Leshabari S, Mohamed I, Trent M, Wadley J, Bonilla ZE, Rosser BRS. Perceptions of Sexual Healthcare Provision in Tanzania: a Key Informant Qualitative Study. Sex Res Social Policy 2022; 19:849-859. [PMID: 36172532 PMCID: PMC9514134 DOI: 10.1007/s13178-021-00607-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual health care services must be standard and unbiased, guided by a structured health care system. There is a scarcity of data on how sexual health care is delivered in Tanzania. METHODS To address this gap, in July 2019 we interviewed eleven key informants: cultural and public health experts, and political, religious, and community leaders, selected from different organizations in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Participants were asked for their opinions about clinical practices of health care professionals when providing care to patients, with an emphasis on sexual health. RESULTS Participants' responses were classified into three subcategories: strengths, barriers, and gaps in sexual health care. Availability of services, service delivery to adults, and code of conduct were among the strengths observed in clinical care services. Barriers included the health care provider's attitudes, moral values, and inadequacy in health policies and treatment guidelines. Vulnerable populations including youth were frequently reported to face most challenges when seeking sexual health care services. In terms of gaps, informants emphasized gender equity in sexual health services provision within care settings. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATION Data indicate that lack of training in sexual health and guidelines for dealing with sexual issues are a barrier to comprehensive health care. These findings can inform the main areas for curriculum developers to focus on, when developing an Afro-centric sexual health curriculum suitable for students in health care professional courses. Moreover, these findings can be useful when developing treatment guidelines and policies that are beneficial to the sexual health wellbeing of individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy R. Mgopa
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Michael W. Ross
- Program in Human Sexuality, Department of Family Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Gift Gadiel Lukumay
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Stella Emmanuel Mushy
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ever Mkony
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Agnes F. Massae
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Dorkas L. Mwakawanga
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Sebalda Leshabari
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Inari Mohamed
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Maria Trent
- Department of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Johns Hopkins University Schools of Medicine and Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - James Wadley
- Department of Counselling and Health Services, Lincoln University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Zobeida E. Bonilla
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - B. R. Simon Rosser
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Rosser BRS, Mkoka DA, Rohloff CT, Mgopa LR, Ross MW, Lukumay GG, Mohammed I, Massae AF, Mkonyi E, Mushy SE, Mwakawanga DL, Kohli N, Trent ME, Wadley J, Bonilla ZE. Tailoring a sexual health curriculum to the sexual health challenges seen by midwifery, nursing and medical providers and students in Tanzania. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2022; 14:e1-e9. [PMID: 35695444 PMCID: PMC9210149 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v14i1.3434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tanzania is a country experiencing multiple sexual health challenges, but providers receive no formal training in sexual health. AIM This study aimed to assess (1) what sexual health challenges are commonly seen in clinics in Tanzania, (2) which are raised by patients, (3) which are not addressed and (4) which topics to prioritise for a sexual health curriculum. SETTING Healthcare settings in Tanzania. METHODS Participants were 60 experienced and 61 student doctors, nurses and midwives working in Dar es Salaam. The authors conducted 18 focus groups stratified by profession (midwifery, nursing or medicine) and experience (practitioners vs. students). RESULTS Providers identified six common sexual health concerns: (1) Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and sexually transmissible infection (STI) (especially syphilis and gonorrhoea), (2) sexual violence (including intimate partner violence and female genital mutilation), (3) early and unwanted pregnancy (including early sexual debut and complications from abortion), (4) sexual dysfunctions, (5) key population concerns (e.g. lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT); sex work) and (6) non-procreative sexual behaviour (including pornography and masturbation in males and oral and anal sex practices in heterosexual couples). Across professions, few differences were observed. Homosexuality, sex work, masturbation and pornography were identified as taboo topics rarely discussed. Most participants (81%) wanted one comprehensive sexual health curriculum delivered across disciplines. CONCLUSION A sexual health curriculum for health students in Tanzania needs to address the most common sexual health concerns of patients. In addition to teaching sexual science and clinical care, skills training in how to address taboo topics is recommended. Students endorsed almost all sexual health topics, which suggests that a comprehensive curriculum is appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- B R Simon Rosser
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, United States of America.
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Mwakawanga DL, Mkonyi E, Mushy SE, Trent M, Bonilla Z, Massae AF, Lukumay GG, Mgopa LR, Mohammed I, Wadley J, Ross MW, Leshabari S, Rosser BRS. Would you offer contraception to a 14-year-old girl? Perspectives of health students and professionals in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Reprod Health 2021; 18:245. [PMID: 34895267 PMCID: PMC8665521 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-021-01294-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rates of unplanned adolescent pregnancy and unsafe induced abortions are very high in Sub-Saharan African countries including Tanzania. Despite their availability and accessibility, modern family planning methods are reported to be critically underutilized by adolescents. This study is part of a broader study that aims to develop a curriculum that will be used in training health professionals by investigating the sexual health training needs of health providers and students in Tanzania. AIM This study describes the perceptions of health professionals and students on the provision of contraceptives to adolescents. METHODS Qualitative formative assessment type of research was conducted using 18 focus groups stratified among health professionals and students (midwives, nurses, and medical doctors). Study participants were presented with the theoretical scenario of a 14-year-old girl who sought contraceptive services at a family planning clinic. This theoretical scenario was used to determine how health professionals and students would handle the case. Thematic analysis guided the examination and determination of data results. RESULTS Three main themes emerged from the data, including (1) knowledge about the provision of contraceptives to adolescents, (2) perception of the adolescents' right to contraceptive use, and (3) barriers to the provision of contraceptives to adolescents. Participants stated that having a baseline knowledge of contraceptive services for adolescents and their rights to contraceptives would trigger their decision on offering the contraceptive. On the other hand, being unaware of the reproductive health rights for adolescents, judgmental behavior of providers, as well as religious and cultural dynamics were all found to be major barriers for providers to offer contraceptive services to the 14-year-old adolescent girl in the theoretical scenario. CONCLUSION These findings support the need for comprehensive sexual health education in Tanzanian health professional training programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorkasi L Mwakawanga
- School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ever Mkonyi
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 S. 2nd St. #300, Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA
| | - Stella E Mushy
- School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Maria Trent
- Schools of Medicine and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Zobeida Bonilla
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 S. 2nd St. #300, Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA
| | - Agnes F Massae
- School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Gift G Lukumay
- School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Lucy R Mgopa
- School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Inari Mohammed
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 S. 2nd St. #300, Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA
| | - James Wadley
- School of Adult and Continuing Education, Lincoln University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michael W Ross
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Sebalda Leshabari
- School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - B R Simon Rosser
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 S. 2nd St. #300, Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA.
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Mkonyi E, Mwakawanga DL, Rosser BRS, Bonilla ZE, Lukumay GG, Mohammed I, Mushy SE, Mgopa LR, Ross MW, Massae AF, Trent M, Wadley J. The management of childhood sexual abuse by midwifery, nursing and medical providers in Tanzania. Child Abuse Negl 2021; 121:105268. [PMID: 34416472 PMCID: PMC8513504 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Child sexual abuse (CSA) is a significant public health problem affecting one billion children aged 2 to 17 globally. The prevalence of CSA in Tanzania is one of the highest; however, how health care providers manage CSA cases has not been studied. OBJECTIVES This study investigated how medical, nursing, and midwifery professionals in Tanzania handle cases of CSA and identified the factors that facilitate or impede the provision of quality care to CSA victims. METHODS Participants were 60 experienced healthcare professionals and 61 health students working in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. We conducted 18 focus groups stratified by profession (midwifery, nursing, or medicine) and experience (practitioners versus students). RESULTS Three main themes emerged. First, child abuse management involved using a multi-disciplinary approach, including proper history taking, physical assessment, treatment, and referral. Second, factors that enhanced disclosure of CSA included building rapport, privacy, and confidentiality. Third, factors that impeded care included fear of harm to the child if the abuse was reported, abuse reporting being perceived as a "waste of time" for providers, loss of evidence from the victim, family resistance, poverty, corruption and cultural dynamics. CONCLUSIONS Midwives, nurses and doctors were all experienced in and reported similar challenges in addressing CSA. At a structural level, the ratio of providers to patients in health facilities inhibits quality care. These findings have implications for strengthening CSA policy/guidelines and clinical practice in Tanzania. Mandated CSA training is necessary for midwifery, nursing, and medical students as well as in continuing education courses for more experienced providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ever Mkonyi
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Stella E Mushy
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Lucy R Mgopa
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Agnes F Massae
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Maria Trent
- Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Mushy SE, Rosser BRS, Ross MW, Lukumay GG, Mgopa LR, Bonilla Z, Massae AF, Mkonyi E, Mwakawanga DL, Mohammed I, Trent M, Wadley J, Leshabari S. The Management of Masturbation as a Sexual Health Issue in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: A Qualitative Study of Health Professionals' and Medical Students' Perspectives. J Sex Med 2021; 18:1690-1697. [PMID: 37057493 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Across Africa, there are strong cultural taboos against masturbation. AIM As part of a broader study investigating sexual health training needs of the health providers, researchers conducted a study to investigate how masturbation is addressed as a clinical issue in clinics in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. METHODS An exploratory qualitative study design conducted in June 2019 involving 18 focus groups among health care providers and students in the health professions (midwives, nurses, medical doctors). A total of 61 health care students and 58 health providers were interviewed. The study participants were purposively selected and the design was purposively stratified to examine findings across the 3 main health care providers and by experience (clinicians vs students). A semistructured interview guide in Kiswahili language was used. The study participants were presented a case scenario of a 14-year-old boy who was found masturbating in his room by his father, and asked how this case would be handled in a clinical setting. Data were transcribed in Kiswahili and Translated to English. OUTCOMES Inductive-deductive thematic analysis was performed. Major themes and subthemes were identified. RESULTS Two main themes emerged: (i) knowledge about the management of masturbation and (ii) views about the effects of masturbation. Clinical interventions providers would try to include normalization of masturbation as a pubescent behavior combined with advice to stop the adolescent from masturbating, a recommendation to watch for negative effects immediately postmasturbation, and referral to a psychologist for treatment. Across providers and students, masturbation in adolescence was seen as clinically problematic, potentially leading to multiple issues in adulthood including sexual dissatisfaction with a spouse, psychological dependency, and erectile dysfunction, loss of sexual sensitivity in intercourse, premature ejaculation, and penis size reduction. Several participants mentioned they received no training about masturbation to guide their clinical practice. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS These findings affirm the need for comprehensive sexual health training in Tanzanian universities. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS Use of stratified design by profession and experience allowed to explore if there appear to be differences between students and experienced providers. The findings cannot be generalizable to all health professional students and providers across Tanzania. CONCLUSION When designing sexual health curricula for Tanzania, it is important to include accurate information about masturbation as a normal and healthy sexual practice to address widely held myths about its effects on health, and to train providers in how to counsel when concerns and inaccurate information are brought to the clinical encounter. Mushy SE, Rosser BRS, Ross MW, et al. The Management of Masturbation as a Sexual Health Issue in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: A Qualitative Study of Health Professionals' and Medical Students' Perspectives. J Sex Med 2021;18:1690-1697.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella E Mushy
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | | | | | - Lucy R Mgopa
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Agnes F Massae
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ever Mkonyi
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | | | - Maria Trent
- Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Sebalda Leshabari
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Mgopa LR, Rosser BRS, Ross MW, Mohammed I, Lukumay GG, Massae AF, Mushy SE, Mwakawanga DL, Mkonyi E, Trent M, Bonilla ZE, Wadley J, Leshabari S. Clinical Care of Victims of Interpersonal Violence and Rape in Tanzania: A Qualitative Investigation. Int J Womens Health 2021; 13:727-741. [PMID: 34335058 PMCID: PMC8318211 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s301804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Africa has high rates of interpersonal violence and rape, although little is known about how these cases are handled in the clinical setting. Methods We enrolled 121 health care professionals and students in Tanzania from the fields of midwifery, nursing and medicine, and conducted 18 focus group discussions stratified by both professional and clinical experience. Two clinical scenarios were presented across all groups and participants were asked to give their opinions on how the hospital they worked in would manage the cases. Case 1 focused on how to address a case of an injured woman beaten by her husband (and whether the perpetrator would be reported to the police). Case 2 focused on how to handle a rape victim who is brought to the hospital by the police. Results Participants considered both cases as emergencies. There was a similarity in the clinical care procedures across both scenarios. This included building rapport with the patient, prioritization of the medical care, history taking, and referring to other specialties for follow-up. Participants differed in how they would handle the legal aspects of both cases, including whether and how to best follow mandated reporting policies. Providers wondered if they should report the husband in case study 1, the criteria for reporting, and where to report. Providers displayed a lack of knowledge about resources needed for sexual violence victim and the availability of resources. Conclusion These findings indicate that cases of intimate partner violence and rape are likely to be under-reported within hospitals and clinics in Tanzania. Health care providers lack training in their required obligations and procedures that need to be followed to ensure victim’s safety. The findings confirm that there is a need for health care students in Tanzania (and possibly Africa) to receive comprehensive training in how to handle such cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy R Mgopa
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - B R Simon Rosser
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Michael W Ross
- Program in Human Sexuality, Department of Family Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Inari Mohammed
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Gift Gadiel Lukumay
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Agnes F Massae
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Stella E Mushy
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Dorkasi L Mwakawanga
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ever Mkonyi
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Maria Trent
- Department of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Johns Hopkins University Schools of Medicine and Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Zobeida E Bonilla
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - James Wadley
- Department of Counseling and Health Services, Lincoln University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sebalda Leshabari
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
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Mgopa LR, Rosser BRS, Ross MW, Lukumay GG, Mohammed I, Massae AF, Leshabari S, Mkonyi E, Mushy SE, Mwakawanga DL, Trent M, Wadley J, Bonilla ZE. Cultural and clinical challenges in sexual health care provision to men who have sex with men in Tanzania: a qualitative study of health professionals' experiences and health students' perspectives. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:676. [PMID: 33827508 PMCID: PMC8028207 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10696-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care providers across sub-Saharan Africa continue to face challenges while delivering sexual health care services. We explored the experiences, views and challenges of health care professionals and health students across different disciplines in Tanzania, towards delivery of sexual health services to men who have sex with men. METHODS Utilizing a qualitative approach, we recruited 121 health care professionals (providers) and students from the fields of midwifery, nursing and medicine in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. We conducted 18 focus groups discussions, stratified by profession and experience, to investigate clinical management and challenges while addressing a case of an adult male presenting with rectal gonorrhea. RESULTS Findings indicated this case as extremely sensitive, clinical management involved establishing rapport and consent, medical care from history taking to treatment, and referral to other specialties. However, the illegal status of homosexuality in Tanzania was a primary concern to participants, this triggered the clinical care of this case scenario as challenging. There were uncertainties whether or not that such a case should be reported to the authorities. CONCLUSION Findings from this study revealed a need for training health students in Tanzania to address sexual health issues including accurate information on homosexuality, reporting requirements and clinical management in the legal and socio-cultural context of the African continent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy R Mgopa
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - B R Simon Rosser
- University of Minnesota, School of Public Health, 1300 S. 2nd St., Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA.
| | - Michael W Ross
- University of Minnesota, School of Public Health, 1300 S. 2nd St., Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA
| | - Gift Gadiel Lukumay
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Inari Mohammed
- University of Minnesota, School of Public Health, 1300 S. 2nd St., Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA
| | - Agnes F Massae
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Sebalda Leshabari
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ever Mkonyi
- University of Minnesota, School of Public Health, 1300 S. 2nd St., Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA
| | | | - Dorkasi L Mwakawanga
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Maria Trent
- Johns Hopkins University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - James Wadley
- Lincoln University, Counseling and Human Services Department, 1570 Baltimore Pike, Philadelphia, PA, 19352, USA
| | - Zobeida E Bonilla
- University of Minnesota, School of Public Health, 1300 S. 2nd St., Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA
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