- An estimated 2 million women and girls in Africa live with obstetric fistula
- It is estimated that another 100,000 develop the condition every year
Obstetric fistula is one of the most serious and tragic childbirth injuries. It is a hole between the birth canal and bladder or rectum caused by prolonged, obstructed labour, without access to timely, high-quality medical treatment. It leaves women incontinent, and often leads to chronic medical problems, depression, social isolation and deepening poverty. Yet the condition is preventable and treatable.
Inter Care supports The Fistula Care Centre in Lilongwe, Malawi, which provides surgery, rehabilitation, education and an empowerment programme to between 300 and 400 women every year.