LAHORE: The countries around the world are observing the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula on Sunday (today) to raise awareness about this neglected health and human rights challenge.

The theme for this year is “Women’s rights are human rights! End fistula now!” Obstetric fistula is one of the most serious and tragic childbirth injuries. Health experts say the problem is preventable with the correct medical assistance and its occurrence is a violation of human rights and a reminder of gross inequities. Obstetric fistula has been virtually eliminated in industrialised nations as it is preventable and, in most cases, can be surgically repaired. However, an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 new cases are still developing in Pakistan every year.

Over the last seven years, the Fistula Foundation has directly supported more than 3,400 women and girls to receive surgical treatment for fistula in Pakistan through their seven regional centres. The campaign is based on three key strategies of prevention, treatment and social reintegration of survivors. The Pakistan National Forum on Women’s Health is implementing this project all over the country by providing surgical treatment, trainings for doctors and mid-level healthcare providers and raising awareness about social issues related to obstetric fistula.

For the patients of central Punjab, a Regional Fistula Centre has been established in collaboration with Jahandad Society for Community Development at the Central Medical College, Lahore. Patients admitted to this centre will get all the required treatments including surgery totally free-of-cost.

Punjab Health Minister Dr Yasmin Rashid says obstetric fistula is one of the most devastating medical injuries that affect both physical and mental health of women. “It should not be left to the fate that who survives and who suffers such a grievous injury. Everyone deserves a life of dignity, and the day serves as a reminder that we cannot ignore such a promise,” she said.

Published in Dawn, May 23rd, 2021