This chapter addresses obstetric fistula, a topic only addressed with the inclusion of a fistula module in a survey. Obstetric fistula is a complication that arises from obstructed or prolonged labor that creates a hole or opening in the birth canal. Prolonged obstructed labor that does not receive prompt medical care stops the blood supply to the tissues of the vagina, bladder, and/or rectum. Unrelieved obstructed labor can compress a woman’s bladder, urethra, rectum, and vaginal wall between the fetal head and maternal pubis. This compression and the resultant loss of blood supply produces necrosis of the compressed tissues. Necrosis then causes uncontrolled leakage of urine from the bladder through the vagina (vesico-vaginal fistula) and leakage of stool from the vagina (recto-vaginal fistula) (HERA and ICRH 2010).
Health Research for Action (HERA) and International Center for Reproductive Health (ICRH). 2010. Thematic Evaluation of National Programs and UNFPA Experience in the Campaign to End Fistula: Assessment of Global/Regional Activities. “Volume I: Global/Regional Report, Final Report – March 2010.” Reet, Belgium: HERA and ICRH.