In Ethiopia, at least 8000 women every year develop a horrific childbirth injury called a fistula. Obstetric fistula is a dreaded complication of obstructed labour, which leaves the mother totally and permanently incontinent. Normally an obstructed labour would be treated by a Caesarean section, but in remote villages of Ethiopia the facilities are unavailable to do these operations. The victim must endure many days of agony in labour, the shock of a stillborn child, and the horror of being left incontinent.

Sadly, many Ethiopian women live with fistula injuries for months or years because they are unaware that treatment is available, or they simply don't have the means to get to hospital, or money to pay for the procedure.

In 2008, Ethiopiaid began work with the EA Fistula Hospital with the aim of treating affected women that live in eastern Ethiopia.  The hospital has treated over 100 fistula victims and has a specially trained surgeon and dedicated nurses that specialise in caring for fistula patients.

EA Hospital nurse cares for post-op fistula patient

Besides funding the treatment of fistula victims, Ethiopiaid is also supporting 'awareness trips' to the border towns of eastern Ethiopia to spread word that treatment is available and free!  The first string of visits inspired a huge response from affected women, some of which have been living with the injury and resultant incontinency for 10 to 15 years. 

EA Hospital patients relax in the shade

The women are treated and cared for post-operation.  They are given advice on how to care for themselves once home and what to do should they fall pregnant again.  Finally, they are released with a new dress, new skirt and new scarf.  More importantly, they have renewed confidence and feel able to return to their husbands without shame or embarrassment.  Below are some responses from women following treatment at the Edna Adan Hospital.

'I cannot express my joy.'
'It is more than I had imagined.'
'I am elated and very thankful to the Doctor who did the operation.'
'I cannot believe it, as the first one was not successful.  Now I feel like a woman.'
'I was not sure that such an opportunity would come as I did not have money for operation.'
'I am very grateful.  I can't believe now I am dry.'
'My life will be different now.'
'I am very excited that I will lead a normal life again.'
'I am very appreciative as I have lived a life of shame.'

The difference seen in the attitudes of these women is overwhelming.  We want to continue giving women a chance of 'a normal life'.  You can help us by donating to Ethiopiaid today.