Experiences of deaf women and girls in accessing maternal health rights and services in Uganda

Abstract

Background: Women with disabilities are at disproportionate risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes partly because of the limited information on their pregnancy histories. However, deaf women are faced with communication challenges, sexuality, menstrual health as well as pregnancy and its care, which remain a contemporary phenomenon. Still, little is known about the lived experiences of deaf women and girls.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine the maternal health experiences of deaf women and girls, identify the challenges that influence their antenatal, childbirth and postnatal outcomes and improve access.

Method: The study used qualitative research of an intrinsic case study design utilising semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with 50 deaf women and girls who are deaf or hard of hearing in Mbale district and 13 key informants from state and non-state entities. Documentary analysis was also utilised to examine government documents on this topic.

Results: Findings revealed that 100% of deaf women and girls lack antenatal services tailored to their linguistic needs and communication barriers, which provide no opportunities for better medical provider–patient communication.

Conclusion: Despite Uganda’s legal frameworks on maternal health rights (MHRs), deaf women and girls’ linguistic needs are yet to be incorporated into the Ugandan health sector. Current healthcare provisions do not always meet their needs during maternal services. Therefore, visible and constructive policies are necessary to steer deaf MHRs and services.

Contribution: Deaf epistemology should be integrated into policy, research spaces and practice for effective and evidence-based policies needed to guide Sexual and Reproductive Health services among deaf women and girls.