23rd May 2022 :International Day to End Obstetric Fistula

Obstetric Fistula (OF) is a hole in the birth canal caused by prolonged, obstructed labour in the absence of timely emergency caesarian section, leaving women to leak urine and faeces. Left untreated, it can lead to infection, depression and infertility. Sentenced to a life of misery, stigma and isolation – husbands and families abandon them, communities ostracize them, employment opportunities vanish – they can suffer from mental health issues and deepening poverty.
UN Member States adopted a resolution to end fistula by 2030. To that end, the theme of this year’s observance is “End Fistula Now: Invest in Quality Healthcare, Empower Communities!”
Obstetric fistula is a development and public health issue, but it’s also a human rights issue, one that grants everyone the right to health and a life of dignity.