An estimated 74,000 women in Uganda are currently living with obstetric fistula, a serious childbirth-related condition, according to Dr. Richard Mwesigwa.
Speaking at Lira Regional Referral Hospital, Dr. Mwesigwa explained that each year, around 1,900 new cases of fistula are reported across the country, yet only about 1,700 are repaired.
This leaves at least 200 women each year without treatment, adding to the growing backlog.
“Instead of reducing, the number is increasing. According to recent reports, some women have to wait up to nine years to undergo fistula repair surgery. If 10 women develop fistulas in a year, the health system can only repair three,” Dr. Mwesigwa said.
He advised expectant mothers to always deliver at health facilities staffed by trained professionals who can detect and manage birth complications.
Dr. Andrew Odur, from Lira Regional Referral Hospital, highlighted teenage pregnancy as a major contributing factor, especially in the Lango Sub-region.
Girls aged 14 to 19 are particularly vulnerable because their pelvic bones are not yet mature, leading to obstructed labor when delivering large babies. This can damage the bladder and cause continuous urine leakage.
“Out of every 100 pregnant women in Lango, 20 to 25 are below the age of 19. The implications of fistula include physical pain, psychological trauma, social isolation, dehydration, and inability to work,” Dr. Odur noted.
Apart from teenage pregnancy, other causes include complications from surgery and diseases such as cancer.
Dr. Bernard Otucu, the City Health Officer of Lira City, cited poor maternal care practices, delayed medical attention during labor, and home deliveries without trained birth attendants as key factors behind the rising cases of fistula.
Despite the challenges, the government through the Ministry of Health has initiated community sensitization programs.
According to Sister Judith Nanyondo, these efforts include radio and TV awareness campaigns and Village Health Teams, and have established centers for fistula repair.
During a radio talk show on May 31, 2025, Sister Judith urged families and communities not to stigmatize fistula survivors.
“We should support and not reject victims while encouraging pregnant women to seek care from hospitals and urging men to accompany their wives to health facilities.
“It’s time to move beyond harmful traditional norms and promote maternal health,” she said.
Annually on 23 May, the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula is observed by the international community as a way to rally action, commitment and support to ending obstetric fistula.
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