Restoring Dignity in Bangladesh: The Transformative Power of Fistula Repair BODY: DHAKA, Bangladesh – In a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the repair of obstetric fistula has emerged as a beacon of hope for women across Bangladesh. This preventable condition, which often stems from lack of access to skilled birth attendants and emergency obstetric care, has left countless women in rural areas addressing physical pain and social ostracism.
The story of Banessa Bibi, a woman in her nineties from Sherpur, is a poignant example. After enduring multiple childbirths, only three of her children survived.
The experience of obstructed labor left her with fistula, a condition that, for decades, caused her immense physical discomfort and social isolation. It was not until she received treatment at the UNFPA-supported Dhaka Medical College Hospital that Banessa found solace in the restoration of her dignity. Jamila, now 45, faced a similar fate.
Her second child’s birth led to a fistula, a condition that caused her to live in shame and silence for two decades.
The UNFPA — supported surgeries brought her back to life, allowing her to breathe freely and sit comfortably among others for the first time in nearly a quarter of a century. Jamena, Banessa’s sister, also succumbed to fistula after delivering her first child. With the support of a UNFPA fistula coordinator, she sought treatment and, like her sister, has since reclaimed her life and her community.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has been instrumental in addressing the issue of obstetric fistula in Bangladesh. Through its support, midwives conduct weekly outreach sessions in local community clinics, bringing maternal healthcare directly to women who may have never sought care.
The UNFPA has also trained healthcare workers in the area, helping to dismantle long — standing barriers to care.
As maternal health services improve, the incidence of fistula is decreasing.
The shift in public awareness, supported by the UNFPA and the Government of Bangladesh, is challenging long — held beliefs that home births are cheaper and less “troublesome “than hospital deliveries.
The stories of Banessa, Jamila, and Jamena reflect the broader struggle against obstetric fistula in Bangladesh. With continued efforts and support, there is hope that many more women will have their lives restored and their dignity reclaimed.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: reliefweb
Source: United Nations Population Fund
