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Obstetric fistula: a preventable tragedy.

Suellen Miller1, Felicia Lester, Monique Webster

  • 1Women's Global Health Imperative, University of California-San Francisco, 74 New Montgomery Street, Suite 600, San Francisco, CA 94105-3444, USA. smiller@psg.ucsf.edu

Journal of Midwifery & Women'S Health
|June 24, 2005
PubMed
Summary

Obstetric fistula, a preventable tragedy affecting millions, stems from obstructed labor. Prevention involves addressing social factors, skilled delivery care, and accessible emergency obstetric services.

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Area of Science:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Public Health
  • Global Health

Background:

  • Obstetric fistula is a devastating condition primarily affecting women and girls in developing regions.
  • It is largely caused by prolonged, obstructed labor, often linked to cephalopelvic disproportion and malpresentation.
  • Social factors like early marriage and malnutrition contribute significantly to the incidence of cephalopelvic disproportion.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the preventable and treatable nature of obstetric fistula.
  • To emphasize the multifaceted approach required for fistula prevention and management.
  • To underscore the role of various interventions and healthcare providers in combating obstetric fistula.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature and global campaign initiatives (e.g., UNFPA).

Related Experiment Videos

  • Identification of etiological factors, including social determinants and obstetric complications.
  • Examination of prevention strategies, such as Fistula Prevention Centers and community-based education (e.g., Tostan program).

    • Main Results:

    • Obstetric fistula is overwhelmingly caused by obstructed labor, particularly in young, first-time mothers.
    • Prevention requires addressing social factors, improving access to skilled birth attendants, and timely emergency obstetric care.
    • Effective surgical repair techniques exist and require wider implementation.

    Conclusions:

    • Obstetric fistula is a preventable and treatable tragedy requiring a comprehensive global strategy.
    • Addressing social etiologies and enhancing access to obstetric care are crucial for prevention.
    • Midwives play a vital role in both preventing and treating obstetric fistula.