Mankessim: The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the United Nation's Sexual and Reproductive Health Agency, in collaboration with Mercy Women Catholic Hospital in Mankessim, have initiated a program to provide free surgical repairs for 30 women suffering from obstetric fistula.
According to Ghana News Agency, these women, gathered from various parts of the country, have endured the painful condition for different durations, facing years of stigmatization and social exclusion within their communities. Following thorough medical evaluations, they are scheduled to undergo surgical procedures at the hospital's specialized fistula unit, aiming to restore their normalcy and societal integration.
The initiative is part of the hospital's regular quarterly fistula repair sessions. Obstetric fistula, a preventable childbirth injury, results in an abnormal opening between the vagina and the bladder or rectum due to prolonged obstructed labor. This condition causes continuous leakage of urine or stool, leading to social isolation and often the loss of babies.
A UNFPA report highlights that Ghana records approximately 798 to 894 new obstetric fistula cases annually, with a notably low repair rate. Between 2016 and 2025, 3,688 cases were documented, but only 1,096 were repaired. As a long-term partner, UNFPA supports the initiative by providing beds, equipment, research, awareness campaigns, patient mobilization, and sponsoring some repairs, with the goal of eradicating fistula in Ghana by 2030.
During a visit to the fistula facility, Dr. Joseph Langa Berko, Acting Medical Director for the Mercy Women Catholic Hospital, refuted misconceptions that fistula is a curse or divine punishment, emphasizing its medical nature and urging the public to cease stigmatizing patients. He noted that a primary challenge is locating patients, as many are unaware of available care or are embarrassed about their condition.
Dr. Berko shared that they operated on over 130 patients last year and expect to treat up to 140 this year. Despite most cases arising from childbirth, he explained that fistula can also result from rape, complex surgeries, and other factors. While curable, some cases are inoperable or require advanced procedures.
Dr. Ebenezer Prince Arhin, MP for Mfansteman and UNFPA associate, echoed the need for greater advocacy to locate patients, condemning their stigmatization. He recounted personal stories, urging men to support affected women.
Dr. Emmily Naphambo, Deputy Representative of UNFPA, highlighted the agency's ongoing efforts to combat fistula, transitioning from occasional clinics to routine surgeries. She emphasized the importance of awareness and community involvement in identifying and treating patients, aiming to restore their dignity.
Madam Esther Kwabena, a 25-year-old patient from Wa, shared her experience of abandonment and community ostracism, expressing optimism about reintegration post-treatment. She detailed the care received at the hospital, contrasting it with her previous challenges at home.