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The study explored the health-seeking experiences of women with obstetric fistula from the onset of the condition until surgical treatment was obtained. It also describes their interactions with health staff and traditional healers.

Exploratory, descriptive qualitative study.

Two secondary-level health facilities in the northern and central regions of Ghana; data collection took place in 2018–2019.

A purposive sample of 37 women who had experienced fistula resulting from childbirth and were awaiting fistula repair at the two fistula centres in Ghana was obtained.

Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Health-seeking experiences and behaviours of women with obstetric fistula were identified. Six major themes were generated: attribution and perceptions of fistula; competing alternatives/multiple sources of care; limited awareness and access to care …