Her health, her right: global call to end obstetric fistula by 2030

Her health, her right: shaping a future without obstetric fistula

KARACHI: An estimated two million women globally suffer in silence from obstetric fistula, a preventable and treatable childbirth injury that causes severe physical, social, and psychological trauma. The International Day to End Obstetric Fistula, marked every year on May 23 by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and global health partners, renews a powerful global pledge—“Her Health, Her Right: Shaping a Future Without Fistula.”

Obstetric fistula, often caused by prolonged, obstructed labor without timely medical intervention, tragically results in the death of 90% of unborn babies and leads to continuous incontinence in survivors. Yet the injury is entirely preventable with timely maternal care, skilled birth attendants, access to emergency obstetric services, and adequate community awareness.

A preventable tragedy still afflicting millions

Despite medical advancements, 3,000 to 5,000 women in Pakistan still live with untreated fistula. The stigma and isolation surrounding the condition further worsen the impact on mental health and quality of life. Many women, particularly in rural and underserved communities, remain unaware that fistula can be treated with surgery and that comprehensive rehabilitation is possible.

The 2025 campaign: community-led, rights-driven

This year’s theme emphasizes that ending fistula by 2030 is not a dream but a strategic target aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The call to action includes:

Strengthening EmONC (Emergency Obstetric and Neonatal Care) services, especially at the primary health care level.

• Posting skilled midwives in every Basic Health Unit (BHU) and Taluka Hospital (THQ) to ensure safe deliveries.
• Creating a career structure for midwives, with better training, salaries, and incentives.
• Reactivating rural and urban health facilities to deliver free basic and emergency obstetric care.
• Increasing community awareness to reduce stigma and promote utilization of maternal health services.

National voices amplify the global movement

Health professionals and advocates call for urgent action to end obstetric fistula during IDEOF 2025 in Pakistan. (Photo: Medical News)

Pakistan’s leading health and civil society voices gathered to reaffirm their commitment at the IDEOF event. Key speakers included:

• Dr. Shoaib Sobani, President, PMA Karachi
• Dr. Abdul Ghafoor Shoro, Secretary General, PMA Centre
• Dr. Sana Ashfaq, Fistula Surgeon, Koohi Goth Hospital
• Dr. Nighat Shah, Representative, SOGP
• Mr. Golden Mulilo and Ms. Renuka Swami from UNFPA Sindh
• Ms. Shaista, MAP Representative
• Dr. Sajjad Ahmed Siddiqui, Project Manager, Fistula Project
• Ms. Sheema Kermani, Tehrik-e-Niswan

Their unified message: fistula must not be a forgotten condition. With coordinated efforts, political will, investment in women’s health, and strong community engagement, Pakistan can eliminate fistula and reduce maternal mortality within this decade.

Let us act now—because her health is her right, and every mother deserves dignity, safety, and a future free from fistula.

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