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Obstetric Fistula Programme
Millions of girls and young women in resource poor countries are living in shame and isolation, often abandoned by their husbands, and excluded by their families and communities. They usually live in abject poverty, shunned, or blamed by society and, unable to earn money, many fall deeper into poverty and further despair. The reason for this suffering is that these young girls or women are living with an obstetric fistula due to complications which arose during childbirth. Their babies are also probably dead, which adds to their depression, pain, and suffering.
What is Obstetric Fistula?
An obstetric fistula is an abnormal opening between a woman's vagina and bladder and/or rectum, usually caused by prolonged and obstructed labor without timely medical care. It leads to continuous leakage of urine or feces, resulting in serious physical, emotional, and social consequences.
Why Do We Focus on Fistula Repair?
At Physicians Across Continents (PAC), we believe that obstetric fistula repair goes beyond simply treating a medical condition or helping a patient. Our work is driven by a deeper purpose: to restore dignity, bring hope, reunite women with their families, and enable them to live productive and fulfilling lives.
Our Comprehensive Approach
Physicians Across Continents (PAC) addresses obstetric fistula through a holistic and sustainable approach that includes prevention, treatment, and social reintegration. We promote safe childbirth and timely access to maternity care, provide free, high-quality surgical repair for women with obstetric fistula, and support their recovery and reintegration into their families and communities. We also strengthen local healthcare systems by training doctors, nurses, and midwives in fistula prevention, care, and repair.
Our Impact & Achievements
PAC has made significant progress in addressing obstetric fistula and improving the lives of thousands of women. Through our efforts, we have:
- Successfully treated over 3,000 women with obstetric fistula worldwide.
- Organized more than 10 specialized surgical camps in Somalia.
- Established a national fistula center in Somalia, offering comprehensive treatment services.
- Provided technical and financial support for national efforts to combat obstetric fistula.