23rd May Holidays

Obstetric Fistula is a devastating childbirth injury that occurs when prolonged, obstructed labor puts extreme pressure on a woman's pelvic tissues. This pressure damages the surrounding organs, creating an abnormal passage between the vagina and the bladder or rectum. As a result, affected women experience constant, uncontrollable leakage of urine and/or feces, leading to severe physical, social, and psychological consequences. Obstetric fistula is largely preventable with timely access to skilled healthcare during labor and can be treated through surgical repair. Efforts to eliminate this condition aim to improve maternal healthcare, reduce maternal mortality, and enhance the quality of life for affected women.

The main causes of obstetric fistula are prolonged, obstructed labor without timely medical intervention, lack of access to skilled healthcare during childbirth, and limited access to cesarean sections. Inadequate prenatal care and early marriage and pregnancy in young girls also contribute to its occurrence, particularly in low-resource settings with limited maternal healthcare infrastructure.

Obstetric fistula prevention involves ensuring access to skilled maternal healthcare, including timely cesarean sections when needed. Treatment typically requires surgical repair, which closes the fistula. Rehabilitation and support are crucial to help affected women regain their health and dignity. Community education and awareness programs play a vital role in preventing and addressing obstetric fistula, as they promote the importance of maternal healthcare and early intervention.