Hundreds of people in Ethiopia’s Amharan region gathered together in early August to learn more about a devastating medical condition, and how to prevent and treat it. As a partner in the Fistula Care Project, IntraHealth International led workshops, organized dramatic performances, and facilitated meetings about the causes and treatment of obstetric fistula during Fistula Awareness Week (August 2-7, 2010).

During the week, community participants and representatives from USAID, the Regional Health Bureau, Regional Women Affairs, Regional Women’s Association, and Zonal and Woreda offices exchanged ideas and learned how to prevent new fistula cases, how to monitor and identify women with fistula, and where to refer patients for treatment.  Misrak Mekonnen, spokeswoman of Amhara National Regional State, addressed participants and voiced support for their efforts.

As a result of these messages and further advocacy for improved maternal and child health care, Zonal officials promised to incorporate fistula prevention and treatment in their budget plans. They also agreed to strengthen safe motherhood activities and provide transportation to health care facilities for women with obstructed labor to help prevent future cases of fistula.

Ethiopia has some of the highest rates of obstetric fistula in the world, with an estimated 9,000 women developing this debilitating condition every year. The Fistula Care Project, led by EngenderHealth and funded by USAID, works to connect women with fistula to treatment and support, and train health workers in diagnosing and treating fistula.