It is one of the most devastating childbirth injuries – and it is entirely preventable.
Obstetric fistula is a hole between the birth canal and bladder or rectum or both, caused by prolonged, obstructed labour without access to timely, quality medical treatment. It often leads to severe and chronic health problems, depression and social isolation.
Persistent social and economic inequities and inadequate sexual and reproductive healthcare drive fistula cases by limiting access to life-saving and life-restoring care, especially in marginalized communities. In 90 per cent of cases, the baby dies. Some 500,000 women and girls live with fistula today.
The fact that women still suffer from this condition is a global injustice that must end. With that in mind, the theme for the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula this year is: “Her health, her right: Shaping a future without fistula.”
To create effective, rights-based and culturally appropriate solutions, we must build on the voices and experiences of women and girls, especially fistula survivors.
By putting women and girls at the heart of stronger health systems and by bridging health and social gaps, we could end fistula by 2030. It would require a comprehensive approach to strengthening sexual, reproductive, maternal and newborn health services – including investing in robust health systems, as well as ensuring access to midwives and timely emergency obstetric care, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.
The condition is treatable, with the right resources: A full recovery requires comprehensive rehabilitation and psychosocial and economic support. UNFPA supported nearly 150,000 surgical repairs for fistula between 2003 and 2024 and has helped integrate 15,000 women and girls back into society – but this is just a fraction of those who need it.
“No woman or girl should have to endure the agony of obstetric fistula,” says UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem. “We must ensure that every woman and girl – no matter who she is or where she lives – can access the high-quality sexual and reproductive health services that are her right, and scale up proven interventions, including fistula repair surgery, that support survivors. Together we can restore dignity and hope.”
