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Publication Date

1-1-2024

Keywords

obstetric fistula, childbirth complication, Sub-Saharan African, mothers

Volume

2024

Abstract

An obstetric fistula is a hole in the vaginal canal, either to the bladder or the rectum. It is a childbirth complication caused by obstructed, prolonged labor. Sub-Saharan African mothers are particularly vulnerable to fistulas if they are poor, rural living, or young. Additionally, cultural barriers, distrust of Western health facilities, and birthing traditions play a role in the pervasiveness of obstetric fistulas in modernity. A hole in the bladder or rectum leads to loss of control over urination or defecation. However, there are secondary consequences, such as mental illness and social stigma, that cause just as much suffering as the physical symptoms of the obstetric fistula. There is a significant lack of resources for most survivors with fistulas today. Although obstetric fistulas are curable in many cases, millions of women and girls suffer without any hope of intervention. Because a significant contributing factor of obstetric fistulas is adolescent pregnancy, many of these women have to live with their fistulas and all the harmful consequences for well over half of their lifetimes. Even with successful treatment options, the majority of the international aid and social problem-solving communities overlook this maternal health issue. Increasing knowledge about maternal health care and improving medical resource accessibility in sub-Saharan Africa is an essential step in ending the widespread prevalence of obstetric fistulas. This brief is written amidst a shortage of high-quality data on maternal mortality, obstetric complications, their causes, and obstetric fistula rates specifically. Nevertheless, it provides a comprehensive discussion on the existence and combat of obstetric fistulas in sub-Saharan Africa today.

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