Determinants of healthcare-seeking behavior among women with symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse in gurage zone

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is relatively common healthcare issue due to its high prevalence, various adverse effects, and challenges for the healthcare system. Women in developing nations are at a higher risk of experiencing this condition. Although POP and its risk factors are more common in low-resource settings, women in these settings often choose not to seek medical attention. Evidence of these women's health-seeking behavior and its determinants is lacking in Ethiopia; particularly in the study area, no study was reported. The aim of this study was to asses determinants of healthcare-seeking behavior among women with symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse in the Gurage Zone in 2023. From March 1 to March 30, 2023, we conducted a community-based cross-sectional study in the Gurage Zone, utilizing a multi-stage systematic random sampling method to recruit participants. We collected data through structured questionnaires via face-to-face interviews and analyzed it using EpiData version 3.1 and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 25. Logistic regression was employed to examine the relationship between independent variables and healthcare-seeking behavior among women experiencing pelvic organ prolapse symptoms. We incorporated variables with a p-value < 0.25 from the bivariate analysis into the multivariable model, identifying those with a p-value < 0.05 as statistically significant in the final analysis. We assessed the goodness of fit using the Hosmer and Lemeshow test. Results are presented as adjusted odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval. Out of 796 respondents, 248 (31.2%, 95% CI: 27.9, 34.7) of the women had reported symptoms of POP. The study showed that 73.4% (95% CI: [67.7-80.2%]) of women with symptomatic POP did not seek care. The factors associated with not seeking care included being a rural resident (AOR = 5.246; 95% CI [1.824, 13.282]), a lack of social support (AOR = 4.462; 95% CI [1.157, 6.692]), low income (AOR = 2.802; 95% CI [1.132, 7.634]), and fear of disclosure (AOR = 2.400; 95% CI [1.126, 6.261]). Around three quarters of women with symptoms of POP did not seek care. Factors such as residency, low income, lack of support, and fear of disclosure are significantly associated with the decision to seek care for POP symptoms. To address these challenges, it is crucial to implement targeted interventions aimed at improving healthcare access for rural populations, informing policymakers to consider implementing subsidized healthcare services, particularly for vulnerable populations, educational programs aimed at raising involvement of families, encouraging women to disclose their health issues and seek care are recommended by healthcare professionals and other concerned bodies.