Mali

Background

Long and difficult childbirth can induce lesions that cause urinary or faecal incontinence. Women affected by this condition—which can be treated with surgery—are often rejected by their communities. MdM is working in Mopti hospital to train surgeons to repair fistulas. The project has been expanded with the addition of psychological support for patients treated at the hospital and a focus on prevention activities.

Karte Mali

Training surgeons to treat vesicovaginal fistulas

»ACTIVITIES
Psychological support sessions for women with fistulas are held before and after the operation. Transport fees, food and other charges linked to the surgery are covered by the project and women are offered help with reintegration. Ongoing training is provided to the hospital’s surgeons. The MdM programme also aims to raise awareness of obstetric fistulas within the community by organising theatrical events, broadcasting radio messages and organising conferences throughout the region.

»OUTLOOK
The work will carry on in 2009, and the focus will continue to be on psychological support, prevention and awareness-raising. The team will expand to facilitate identification of women needing treatment in villages, and to ensure better follow-up of women returning to their communities after surgery. The surgery costs will be totally covered by MdM.