Barriers to uptake of treatment for geophagic women of reproductive age in Tshwane district, Gauteng province: A qualitative study using the health belief model

Mohora Feida Malebatja, Mathildah Mpata Mokgatle and Oluwafemi Omoniyi Oguntibeju
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Mohora Feida Malebatja: Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Mathildah Mpata Mokgatle: Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Oluwafemi Omoniyi Oguntibeju: Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University

International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science (2147-4478), 2025, vol. 14, issue 8, 333-343

Abstract: Geophagic practice amongst women of reproductive age remains a major public health concern that is associated with perinatal and postpartum mortalities and morbidities that requires critical interventions to mitigate the practice. Despite the available interventions such as administration of oral iron and folic acid supplementation and intravenous iron therapy, geophagic women of reproductive age do not adhere to the prescribed treatment. Geophagic practice is common and prevalent amongst women of reproductive age worldwide, irrespective of their socio-economic status, ethnicity, age, and social status. An exploratory qualitative research method was used to explore the perceived barriers to accessing treatment for geophagy among women of reproductive age in Tshwane District, Gauteng Province, using the Health Belief Model as a theoretical framework. The study was conducted in the antenatal care and family planning units in the public healthcare facilities of Tshwane District. The findings indicate that absence of geophagy health education and screening of iron deficiency in antenatal care, addiction and dependency, peer influence, fear of judgement and shame in disclosing geophagic practice to healthcare providers, and lack of awareness regarding the benefits of taking oral and intravenous iron therapies are key barriers influencing uptake of treatment. The study recommends integrating geophagy health education into antenatal services to enhance treatment uptake and adherence. Key Words: Geophagy; Folic acid and iron supplements; Health education and promotion; Interventions; Women of reproductive age; Tshwane District

Date: 2025
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