Butaleja Woman Endures Obstetric Fistula for 35 Years
By Ambrose Wanagoli
A 73-year-old woman from Butaleja District has revealed that she lived with obstetric fistula for 35 years, a condition she says contributed to the collapse of her marriage two decades ago.
The woman was among 24 patients who successfully underwent corrective surgery during a fistula medical camp that concluded on Friday at Busolwe General Hospital. Beneficiaries came from Butaleja District and neighboring areas.
Speaking during the camp, Dr. David Walulye, who was in charge of fistula screening at Busolwe General Hospital, described obstetric fistula as a devastating condition that severely affects the social lives of patients.
He explained that it is characterized by the continuous leakage of urine or stool due to tears that develop during childbirth.
According to Dr. Walulye, the condition is largely caused by prolonged and obstructed labour, closely spaced pregnancies, teenage pregnancies, reliance on unskilled Traditional Birth Attendants, and the use of traditional herbs during childbirth.
He urged women to seek professional maternal health services immediately after conception and throughout pregnancy to reduce the risk of developing the condition.
Dr. Walulye further noted that many women suffering from fistula remain hidden from society due to fear of stigma, discrimination, and the unpleasant odor associated with the continuous leakage of urine or stool.
“The condition affects not only the physical health of women but also their dignity, social relationships, and livelihoods,” he said.
The fistula surgical camp was conducted at Busolwe General Hospital from June 2 to June 5 with support from the Uganda Village Project.
Health experts have continued to call for increased awareness and access to quality maternal healthcare services to prevent new cases of obstetric fistula and restore hope to affected women through treatment and rehabilitation.
