24/05/2025
Today, and every 23rd of May, is the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula.
But what exactly is obstetric fistula? Let’s break it down:
Obstetric fistula is a serious medical condition that usually occurs after prolonged or obstructed labour without timely medical intervention. It results in the development of an abnormal hole (fistula) between a woman’s birth canal and either the bladder, the re**um, or both. This leads to the continuous leakage of urine and/or faeces through the va**na, causing a foul odour, recurrent infections, and skin irritation.
It is also accompanied by social isolation, emotional trauma, and stigmatisation. But did you know that obstetric fistula mostly affects young girls?
Preventive measures include timely access to obstetric care, the use of skilled birth attendants during delivery, avoidance of early marriage, family planning, and community education. Treatment involves surgical repair, rehabilitation, and reintegration support for both physical and emotional recovery.
As the world marks the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula, we at HSCL join our voices in breaking the cycle and preventing fistula worldwide.
