Abstract
Divorce in the context of polygamous marriage is a social reality that may adversely affect women's health, psychological well-being, and socioeconomic conditions. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, few studies have explored the lived experiences of divorced women from polygamous unions and their support needs. This study aimed to explore the impact of divorce in a polygamous marriage context on women's reproductive, perinatal, and mental health, identify the challenges they face, examine the coping strategies they develop, and assess the role of midwives in providing support. This was a qualitative phenomenological study conducted from July 23 to October 23, 2025, in the municipalities of Kinshasa, Limete, and Gombe. Eighteen divorced women from polygamous marriages were purposively selected until data saturation was achieved. Data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Giorgi's phenomenological approach. The findings revealed that divorce occurred in a context characterized by conflicts between co-wives, unequal distribution of household resources, and progressive spousal abandonment. Participants reported significant consequences on their reproductive health (menstrual disorders, obstetric complications, and gynecological infections), mental health (anxiety, chronic stress, sadness, and social isolation), and socioeconomic conditions, including financial hardship, social stigma, and limited access to healthcare services. Despite these challenges, they developed resilience strategies based on income-generating activities, family, community, and religious support. Although the obstetric care provided by midwives was considered satisfactory, participants emphasized the need for stronger psychosocial support. In conclusion, divorce in the context of polygamous marriage exposes women to multidimensional vulnerability, highlighting the need for holistic care that integrates psychosocial support, strengthened social protection mechanisms, and greater involvement of midwives in community-based follow-up and support.
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