It’s time to end the needless suffering caused by obstetric fistula

Published on: 03/06/2025

Obstetric fistula is preventable and treatable. Yet thousands of women and girls suffer from the painful realities of living with it. Let UNFPA—the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency—explain the traumatic consequences of this serious childbirth injury and why we need to end fistula.

International Day to End Obstetric Fistula

23 May 2025

Global

1
22 May 2025

Resources

Intensification of efforts to end obstetric fistula: resolution / adopted by the General Assembly

Resource date: Dec 2024

Publisher: UN

This 2024 UN Resolution on Fistula, adopted by Member States, calls for intensified efforts to end obstetric fistula, highlighting the urgent need for improved quality of care, strengthened accountability, and better data systems. Recognizing the devastating impact of fistula on women’s health, dignity, and rights, the resolution urges governments and stakeholders to scale up efforts, reinforcing the importance of stronger health systems and sustained commitments to eliminate fistula by 2030.

Resources

Intensifying efforts to end obstetric fistula within a decade: Report of the Secretary- General (A/79/112)

Resource date: Jul 2024

Publisher: Office of the UN Secretary General

1

News

UNFPA-supported surgeries help survivors of obstetric fistula to advocate for others in Burundi

Donavine Ndayikengurukiye, 23, was 19 when her pregnancy resulted in an obstetric fistula. © UNFPA Burundi
  • 11 June 2024
1

News

“I suffered a lot”: How UNFPA helps women in Guinea heal from obstetric fistula

Obstetric fistula survivor Kadiatou Bah lived with the condition for nearly 20 years. © UNFPA Guinea/Sayon Idovic Loua
  • 22 May 2024
1

International Day to End Obstetric Fistula 2024

23 May 2024

Global

1
15 April 2024

News

Impossible choices in Gaza: “Women are giving birth prematurely because of terror”

The Al-Helal Al-Emirati maternity hospital in Rafah is one of the last remaining functioning health facilities in southern Gaza. Midwives are delivering more than 70 babies per day in dire conditions and while drastically under-supplied. © UNFPA Palestine/Bisan Ouda
  • 23 February 2024
1

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