User:Researchgirl2021/Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital

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Social concerns related to Fistulas

The ending of obstetric fistulas has been named as a Sustainable development need for Ethiopia and a plan is in place with an achievement goal of 2030. It has been found that by furthering the age of first pregnancy, can play a major role in limiting the occurrence of fistulas. Child marriage is a prevalent practice, most commonly in South Asia and Sub Saharan Africa. In Ethiopia, child marriage which is identified as anyone under the age of 18, exists at a rate of 40.3 percent as of 2016. The prevalence of this practice increases the chances of exposure to sexual abuse, partner violence, and lessens exposure to educational and economic opportunities.

The concern for obstetric fistulas exceeds its medical ramifications, but is also identified in increased ostracization of those with fistulas due to its social stigma.

Contributing risk factors

The main contributing risk factor for obstetric fistulas remains lack of awareness of fistulas and how to treat them. Amongst other risk factors including no skilled birth attendants, poor health-seeking behavior, poor referral system and transportation network, age and physical maturity, iatrogenic surgical damage, Educational status, sexual violence, poverty, and having child births too close together.

How the hospital has contributed to the community

Obstetric fistulas if left untreated risk life long morbidity as well as possible psychological, social, and economic consequences. Currently the Hamlin Fistula Organization has five hospitals throughout Ethiopia and employs over 500 Ethiopians. The work that the hospital does exceeds medical care, but also seeks to rehabilitate women ostracized by their communities and provide them with a safe space to mourn and sometimes find opportunities once they are healed such as providing midwife training.