Fistula Foundation

Obstetric fistula is a devastating childbirth injury. It leaves a woman incontinent, humiliated, and—all too often—shunned by her community. Obstetric fistula ranks as one of humanity’s most disabling injuries—but it can be cured by a surgery that costs $633. Few investments in human health can yield such a dramatic impact on a woman, her family, and her community. 

At least one million women today suffer for want of a surgery that can transform their lives. Living primarily in rural areas of Africa and Asia, women suffering with untreated fistula or severe perineal tears (a similar childbirth injury that causes fecal incontinence) endure the burden of debilitating injuries on top of crushing poverty and gender inequality.

There are three main barriers that prevent them from accessing the care they need: Stigma and lack of awareness, poverty, and inadequate healthcare systems.

Fistula Foundation has a proven model: We help where the need is greatest. We partner with carefully selected doctors and hospitals that are trusted by the communities they serve. Funding 95 partners across more than 35 countries, Fistula Foundation has a vision—and a plan—to bring the suffering caused by fistula to an end in all countries where this condition persists today.