CGHSR Releases Short Film on Obstetric Fistula to Raise Awareness

Pictured above: Filming takes place in Uganda. CGHSR released a short film that followed two women who suffered from obstetric fistula and received treatment. 

It’s estimated that up to two million women suffer from obstetric fistula in low- and middle-income countries. 

The condition refers to an abnormal opening between the vagina and bladder and/or rectum causing continuous leakage of urine or stool. It is a physically, psychologically and socially devastating condition that often results in isolation and ostracization. The primary cause of obstetric fistula is prolonged or obstructed labor due to a lack of access to timely and safe obstetric care.

The Center for Global Health and Social Responsibility’s Global Women’s Health initiative is focused on working with global partners to prevent obstetric fistula through better maternal health care and access to holistic treatment for those living with the condition. CGHSR coordinates an Obstetric Fistula Learning Community that allows partnerships with frontline community organizations and academic institutions across many countries to achieve these goals through education, advocacy and healthcare capacity building. 

CGHSR released a short film by Yoke Productions that shares the compelling story of two women in Rural Uganda who suffered from obstetric fistula. In their own voices, the women explain the impact that this debilitating injury had on their lives and their journey to recovery. The film captures the physical and emotional toll the condition can take while also showcasing the transformative impact that effective care can have on those in need of treatment.

“In this day and age, no woman should suffer or die from lack of basic access to safe and timely obstetric care,” said CGHSR Global Women's Health Director Rahel Nardos, who served as the film’s executive producer. 

Watch the film below and learn more about CGHSR’s Global Women’s Health portfolio here.