Public Health Emergency
Obstetric fistula: it can be prevented and repaired
Leaking urine or stool after a long, difficult labor is not something to hide. Fistula can be treated.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Fekade Alebachew
5 June 2026
What fistula is
An obstetric fistula is a hole between the birth canal and the bladder or rectum, caused by prolonged obstructed labor without timely care. Women with fistula leak urine, stool or both.
It is not your fault
Many women with fistula are hidden away or left by their families. Fistula is a medical injury, not a curse or a punishment, and most fistulas can be repaired.
Prevention
- Attend antenatal care
- Give birth with a skilled attendant in a health facility
- Go to hospital if labor lasts longer than 12 hours
- Delay first pregnancy until the body is mature
Getting treated
Our Urogynecology & Fistula unit assesses women with fistula, prolapse and incontinence and plans repair surgery. Family support during recovery makes a big difference.
Medical information is for education and does not replace individualized medical consultation.