The Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) are leading efforts to combat obstetric fistula. They are offering free surgeries for women suffering from this debilitating childbirth injury. This is part of a broader campaign to raise awareness and reduce stigma around the condition. Staff from health directorates, hospitals, and the Wa Nursing Training College participated in a health walk on Saturday in Wa. They carried placards with messages like “End fistula, end the shame”.
The health walk aimed to demystify obstetric fistula. Deputy Director of Clinical Care Abarry Tahir Mohammed explained the walk’s purpose. "We didn't just take a walk for exercise alone, but we were trying to create awareness on obstetric fistula," he stated. He urged families not to hide women with the condition. "The treatment is free. The surgery is free. So let's come out," he declared. The UNFPA is a key partner funding this year's campaign. Mercy Ships is also providing crucial support for these interventions.
Obstetric fistula is a serious health issue in Ghana. It often results from prolonged and obstructed labour without timely medical help. Regional Public Health Nurse Gladys Cheyuo shared data for the Upper West Region. Between 2006 and 2026, 211 suspected fistula cases were identified. 96 of these cases received surgical repair at the regional hospital. Key barriers include delayed healthcare decisions, poverty, and teenage pregnancies.
Dr. Amina Sanni-Toure, an obstetrician-gynaecologist, highlighted the physical and emotional toll. She stated that social acceptance is as vital as surgical repair. "Our job as doctors is to prevent and treat, but it is for the community to help us reintegrate these people into the community," she said. Many survivors face difficulties finding jobs due to stigma. The global theme for this year's effort is "Her health is a right: Invest to end fistula and childbirth injuries".
Concrete action is being taken to provide treatment. Pognaa Rosemary Bangzie, the focal person for fistula awareness at the health directorate, announced upcoming surgeries. "Tomorrow we have 11 women who will be leaving here, Upper West Region, to Mankessim for them to repair their fistulas," she confirmed. Additional local surgeries are planned for May 26th and 27th at the Upper West Regional Hospital. The goal is to eradicate obstetric fistula by 2030.