11. April 2008
Campaign to End Fistula
Treatment and Training in Bangladesh
Obstetric fistula, a complication of childbearing, is relatively unheard of among countries with sufficient obstetric healthcare. However, in countries where the nearest medical center is miles away, such as poor communities of Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia, this painful condition is a problem for many women.
Obstetric fistula occurs when there are complications during a pregnancy and immediate emergency obstetric care is not available. This painful condition is not just a problem during pregnancy; it leaves women incontinent until they are able to have corrective surgery. When untreated obstetric fistula leads to other health problems that can end in death. Women also face other social problems such as exclusion from their community.
The Campaign to End Fistula launched in 2003 by UNFPA and its partners with the goal of ending the occurrence of this preventable problem. Most recently in Sylhet, Bangladesh twenty-nine women underwent corrective surgery during a three-day training session that helped to teach local doctors the procedures to repair obstetric fistula.
To read about the courageous stories of women affected with this condition and to find out how you can help the Campaign to End Fistula please visit their website at: www.endfistula.org/
Source: Campaign to End Fistula