KENYA: Focus on fistula

Information deficit

Lack of reproductive health education means there is widespread ignorance of the basic facts about fistula - a tear in the birth canal caused by prolonged obstructed labour, or by sexual abuse, surgical trauma, gynaecological cancers and related radiotherapy treatment. According to the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), there are 3000 new cases per year in Kenya, with about one to two fistulas per 1000 deliveries.

Many affected women are not aware that fistula can be repaired. Misinformation about fistula leads to delays in seeking treatment. Some women think incontinence is normal after delivery.

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