International Day to End Obstetric Fistula observed

The International Day to End Obstetric Fistula was observed across the world on 23 May 2016 with the theme End fistula within a generation. The day is celebrated to raise awareness about obstetric fistula. The day was created through the resolution A/RES/67/147 of United Nations General Assembly calling on the international community to use this International Day to significantly raise awareness and intensify actions towards ending obstetric fistula. About Obstetric fistula • Obstetric fistula is one of the most serious and tragic injuries that can occur during childbirth. • It is a hole between the birth canal and the bladder or rectum caused by prolonged, obstructed labour without treatment. • The condition typically leaves women incontinent and as a result they are often shunned by their communities. • Sufferers often endure depression, social isolation and deepening poverty. • Many women live with the condition for years as they cannot afford to obtain treatment. • An estimated 2 million women in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, the Arab region, Latin America and the Caribbean are living with this injury and some 50000 to 100000 new cases develop each year. • Yet fistula is almost entirely preventable. Its persistence is a sign that health systems are failing to meet women’s essential needs.