Exploring sexual and reproductive health needs, barriers, and coping strategies of internally displaced women of reproductive ages in north-central Nigeria: A qualitative analysis

Abstract

Context Women and girls form a substantial proportion of the population of internally displaced people (IDP) in Nigeria, these vulnerable populations are at risk of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) rights violations and greater risk of unsafe abortion and high maternal deaths. IDP women’s living conditions are often precarious, exposing them to health risks, challenges are often faced due to lack of finance and other related factors to access health care services leading to them improvising health care services which is considered dangerous to their health. There is a gap in the study regarding the SRH needs of the IDP women and the alternative they opt for in meeting their sexual needs. Objective This study explores the SRH needs, barriers and coping strategies of women of reproductive age in North Central IDP camps. Data and methods A qualitative study was conducted between January 8th and February 28th, 2024, in 4 internally displaced camps in Abuja and Benue among women of reproductive age. Using a well-structured interview guide for an in-depth interview, 14 respondents were purposively selected for the study. The women were interviewed to provide insight into the SRH needs, coping strategies and barriers to utilizing SRH services in the selected camps. Data analysis was conducted using Nvivo version 11. Results The study revealed the SRH needs for specific family planning methods, free SRH services and antenatal facilities in the camp and the need for toilets. Without the SRH services women cope using herbs and concoctions, they also patronize traditional birth attendants and some of the barriers include finance, husbands’ approval and distance to health facilities. Conclusion In conclusion, women in the IDP camp have SRH needs that need to be met as their coping strategies are not adequate but could complicate their sexual health. It therefore recommended the government should provide adequate medical personnel in the camp for easy access to SRH services.