My experience with Obstetric Fistula

However, only 7.5% of this population can afford treatment. 

Obstetric Fistula, as explained by Dr. Joel Ojwanda, a gynaecologist at the Nairobi Adventist Hospital, is a childbirth injury that is experienced by women who undergo prolonged or obstructed labour.

"It occurs when a channel or a hole develops between a woman's vagina and her urinary bladder or rectum during strained and prolonged labour at childbirth,” he explains. 

Nancy Kemunto, a Fistula hero, recalls how she was diagnosed with the condition.

"One month after I had given birth, I recall my son complaining of a foul smell in the house. I would change my daughter's diapers frequently but the smell lingered on. I would go to the washrooms and realize I had passed stool unknowingly.”

With frequent occurrences of the incident, she decided to see a gynaecologist who diagnosed her with Obstetric Fistula.

She narrates how navigating life with her condition was difficult for her mental health.

"I was very conscious of my association with family and friends. I preferred to stay alone because of the uncontrollable passage of urine and stool that could cause a foul smell."

Dr. Ojwanda advises the public to show love and support to Fistula victims as it is part of the healing process. He further recommends frequent check-ups and clinic visits for pregnant women as well as proper attention by qualified medics during childbirth.

However, Fistula can be treated and corrected, it is not a life-long condition.

"Obstetric Fistula can be corrected through a surgical operation, which is the most effective way of treating the condition, though the cost of the procedure may vary depending on the severity in terms of the channels created and extent of damage caused,” Dr. Ojwanda explains.

Nancy is grateful for her mother's support through her healing journey as well as therapy, which was of great help as she recovered from the condition.