Cleft lip and/or palate in Ethiopia : A qualitative study of Ethiopian mothers experiences raising a child with cleft lip and/or palate

Abstract

Abstract This study was aimed to discover Ethiopian mothers` experiences raising a child with cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P). To date, little research has looked at the Ethiopian mothers` experiences raising a child with CL/P. This study’s focus is not only to reflect the experiences of the mothers`, but also to provide an in-depth understanding of the children’s unique situation. A qualitative approach and design was used as the instrument to collect the data. Six biological mothers were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. The interview guide was designed to elicit in-depth information from the informants. The major findings in this study were that the Ethiopian mothers’ experienced tremendous challenges in raising a child with CL/P. The mother’s emotional wellbeing was overshadowed by the child’s needs. This study emphasized the need for specific attention to be given to the mother’s emotional state. Mothers reported a lack of sufficient information from health professionals regarding feeding, the child’s condition, and availability of treatment. The informants were thankful for the treatment received, but it was not sufficient to meet their needs and the child’s needs. The lack of coordination of professional services was one of the strongest barriers met by these mothers and their children.