About

In 2003, UNFPA and its partners launched a global Campaign to End Fistula with the goal of making obstetric fistula as rare in developing countries as it is in the industrialized world, in line with international targets to improve maternal health. In the last years, the Campaign has brought fistula to the attention of a wide audience, including the general public, policymakers, health officials and affected communities.

 

 

The Campaign has made remarkable progress but the needs are great. Ending fistula worldwide will demand political will, additional resources, and strengthened collaboration.

The Campaign is now working in 50 countries in Africa, Asia and the Arab region and involves a range of partners. In each country, it focuses on three key areas:

Prevention

The most effective way to prevent fistula is to ensure access to quality maternal health care services, including family planning, skilled birth attendance and emergency obstetric care. In the long run, prevention also entails tackling underlying social and economic inequities through efforts aimed at empowering women and girls, enhancing their life opportunities and delaying marriage and childbirth.

Treatment

While prevention is our focus, there is a strong commitment to treating women who are already affected. In most cases, a surgery can repair the injury. The average cost of fistula treatment is US $300. The Campaign supports all areas of treatment, from training doctors in fistula surgery to equipping and upgrading fistula centres.

Rehabilitation

Fistula treatment goes far beyond repairing the hole in a woman’s tissue. Many patients —especially those who have lived with the condition for years— will need emotional, economic and social support to fully recover from their ordeal. Through the Campaign, women receive counselling and skills training to help them get back on their feet after surgery. Working with communities is also key to help reduce stigma surrounding the condition and ensure women are welcomed back into society.