There is global consensus on the need for improved access to quality and sustainable fistula care and training services; postoperative social-reintegration services; additional research and consistent allocation of resources for this cause.
As demand for repair grows, there is an urgent need for development of a standard of care for training skilled fistula surgeons.
Citizen volunteers are at the front lines of a community-driven initiative for saving lives and preserving health for women in Kissidougou.
The midwife is the first point of referral for the pre-conceptual, the pregnant, the labouring, the post-natal mother, the skilled attendant for the new born; teacher, guide, support, medical helper. And a first-responder in preventing fistula.
In addressing obstetric fistula, there is a tendency to emphasize the treatment side. But while fistula treatment is important, fistula prevention actually deals with the causes.
Providing comprehensive care for fistula survivors demands a coordinated group effort, from finding women in need of repair, to transporting them to services, to reintegration.
