The fistula crisis in sub-Saharan Africa: an ongoing struggle in education and awareness.
This article examines the social and physical causes of obstetric fistulas, as well as resulting social and psychological consequences. Preventative strategies are addressed using Niger as a microcosm for this devastating condition that affects two million women worldwide.
Athena Women's Medical Center, Turnersville, NJ, USA.
Linda
L
Narcisi
Andrew
A
Tieniber
Leslie
L
Andriani
Timothy
T
McKinney
D000293:Adolescent; D017954:Africa South of the Sahara; D005260:Female; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D008423:Maternal Age; D008427:Maternal Health Services; D009549:Nigeria; D007744:Obstetric Labor Complications / Q000517:prevention & control; D011247:Pregnancy; D012006:Rectovaginal Fistula / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D057545:Social Stigma; D014719:Vesicovaginal Fistula / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D014837:Voluntary Health Agencies