Amsterdam, 23 May 2022 – On May 23 we raise awareness of obstetric fistula and its disastrous consequences. Obstetric fistula is one of the most serious injuries that can occur during childbirth, where an opening forms between the birth canal and bladder and/or rectum. Obstetric fistula is caused by prolonged, obstructed labour without access to high-quality and timely medical treatment. It leaves women with incontinence problems, and often leads to chronic medical problems, social isolation, and depression. Obstetric fistula is a preventable complication with the right medical assistance, and it can be cured with surgery.

Although obstetric fistula is treatable and preventable, hundreds of thousands of women and girls in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, Middle East and South America are living with this injury. These women suffer from constant urinary incontinence, which often leads to social isolation, skin infections, kidney disorders and even death if left untreated. The taboos around obstetric fistula keep people from being informed about this injury and its devastating impact on these women’s lives.

IDA recognises obstetric fistula as an underserved market, needing to be addressed as we aim for Universal Health Coverage via our long-term goals and strategic objectives. We offer a variety of products that are needed to treat obstetric fistula, like surgical instruments and anaesthetics, and we are determined to raise awareness about this health topic. In our mission to bridge gaps in access to essential health goods, we are committed to increase access to quality medical supplies and medication needed for treatment of obstetric fistula, and to maternal and child health, to ensure that women have access to affordable quality goods during, and after their pregnancy.

For more information about IDA’s RMNCH (Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Child Health) portfolio, please visit our Reproductive and Maternal Health page.