What Is Obstetric Fistula?
(from www.walktobeautiful.com)
The World Health Organization has called fistula "the single most dramatic aftermath of neglected childbirth", estimating that more than 2 million women live with fistula worldwide. But, it fears even this number may be a gross underestimate.

Short of death, the most devastating effect of neglected childbirth is obstetric fistula, a hole that forms between the vagina and the bladder or rectum during prolonged, obstructed labor. This horrific injury leaves victims incontinent. Some develop nerve damage in the feet and legs.

Problem in Niger
(Worldwide Fistula Fund Model Fistula Surgery and Training Center)

Niger has the highest birth rate in the world, yet has only 10 OB/GYNs for a population of nearly 6.5 million women.  A Nigerien woman is estimated to have a 1 in 7 lifetime risk of maternal death.  In Niger, it is estimated that tens of thousands of girls and women already suffer from obstetric fistulas and there are several thousand new cases each year.  Niger -- a country almost twice the size of Texas -- has few hospitals that can treat women with fistulas, and just two of those perform repairs with any regularity. 

Fistula Center in Niger
SIM Niger is partnering with the Worldwide Fistula Fund to create a 42-bed center for:
1. surgical intervention
2. training of Nigerien surgeons
3. rehabilitation
4. research.

Next Steps

Two teams will arrive in Niger in December to perform some initial fistula surgeries.

The construction of the new fistula center will begin as soon as we have our building supervisor, Chad Winsor in place (hopefully very soon!). Chad is currently in the US raising support.

For more information visit:

The Worldwide Fistula Fund website

 

Women Suffering from Obstetric Fistula in Niger