Fast Facts on Obstetric Fistula

Obstetric Fistula (vesico–vaginal or rectal–vaginal fistula) occurs as a result of prolonged, obstructed and unassisted labour which can last for five days or more.
The continuous pressure of the baby’s head inside the mother causes a loss of circulation to part of the bladder tissue and sometimes the rectal wall. The tissue dies and drops out, leaving a hole. As a result the mother is left incontinent of urine and in 20% of cases incontinent of bowel contents as well.
The baby is usually stillborn.
Approximately 5% of pregnant women worldwide have difficulty in childbirth or suffer obstructed labour.
In western countries women in obstructed labour can successfully deliver a child with medical assistance through caesarean section or forceps or other delivery technique.
By 1920 fistulas had been eradicated in England.
In developing countries where there is little or no medical assistance during childbirth, women in obstructed labour either die or end up with terrible birthing injuries such as fistula. As well as causing incontinence, their injuries often result in other complications such as partial or complete paralysis of the legs.
In Ethiopia where the roads are few, the terrain is rugged, and medical help is not readily available, a mother with a small or malformed pelvis or a badly positioned child may be in labour for five or more days without help. Many of these women become deeply depressed.
Due to the objectionable smell associated with the condition these women are mostly rejected by their husbands and families. They become social outcasts and have a deep sense of rejection and shame.
It is estimated that there are 2,000,000 – 3,000,000 women in developing countries living with fistulas (WHO).
It is estimated that there are around 9,000 new cases per year in Ethiopia – mostly in rural areas.
Obstetric fistula is a treatable and preventable condition.
Fistula surgery at the Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital has a 93% cure rate.
The Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital has treated over 35,000 women.
Most of the women treated at the Fistula Hospital are able to return to a normal life with their dignity restored. Many are able to have a child and experience the happy role of motherhood.