Landmark Session Addresses a Devastating Reproductive Health Condition Affecting Countless Numbers of Women Worldwide

NEW YORK, November 1, 2006 – Traumatic gynecologic fistula, a devastating health condition caused by sexual violence, can have serious medical, legal, and psychosocial effects on women. On November 9, 2006, a group of international experts attending the World Congress of the Federation of International Gynecology & Obstetrics (FIGO) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, will discuss these issues in a special session on traumatic fistula sponsored by EngenderHealth.

During the special session, "Traumatic Gynecologic Fistula—A Situation Analysis and Programmatic Recommendations," experts from international and community-based organizations in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the United States will speak about the medical management of traumatic fistula, successful local advocacy efforts, and new public health approaches to addressing this devastating condition.

While awareness about fistula caused by obstructed labor is growing, little attention has been paid to traumatic fistula, which most often occurs as a result of sexual violence in conflict settings. "There is such a great need for women with traumatic fistula to receive services that address the multidimensional issues they face, including psychological counseling, legal services, and medical treatment," stated Dr. Ana Langer, President of EngenderHealth, who is chairing the session. "Without a comprehensive approach to addressing this condition, women will continue to suffer needlessly."

Traumatic fistula is most common in Africa and in war zones, especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, and Sierra Leone. Brutal rape (by one or more assailants or by the use of gun barrels, beer bottles, or sticks) can result in a tear, or fistula, between a woman’s vagina and bladder or rectum, or both. Women suffering from fistula are unable to control the flow of their urine and/or feces and find it nearly impossible to keep themselves clean. Often divorced by their husbands, shunned by their communities, and unable to work or care for their families, they must also cope with the psychological trauma caused by rape.

About EngenderHealth
EngenderHealth works to improve the health and well-being of people in the poor communities of the world. We do this by sharing our expertise in sexual and reproductive health and transforming the quality of health care. We promote gender equity, advocate for sound practices and policies, and inspire people to assert their rights to better, healthier lives. Working in partnership with local organizations, we adapt our work in response to local needs.

With more than 60 years' experience in the field of international sexual and reproductive health, EngenderHealth currently supports projects in 40 countries.

For more information about EngenderHealth, go to: www.engenderhealth.org.

To learn more about EngenderHealth's work on traumatic and obstetric fistula, go to: www.engenderhealth.org/our-work/maternal/fistula.

Media contacts:

Theresa Kim, 212-993-9834