Dhaka: The International Day to End Obstetric Fistula 2025 was observed today at LAMB Hospital in Parbatipur upazila of Dinajpur, with a renewed call for building an obstetric fistula-free Bangladesh by 2030.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was organized by LAMB Hospital, Stop Suffering Female Genital Fistula (SS-FGS) project, Elimination of Genital Fistula by Capturing, Treating, Rehabilitating and Reintegrating in Bangladesh (FRRei) project, Community Health and Development Program (CHDP), and Lamb Learning and Development Centre (LLDC), with technical support from Women Hope International (WHI) and UNFPA Bangladesh.
The theme for this year was ‘Let’s ensure the health rights of women with fistulas, build a country free of obstetric fistula.’ The day began with a colorful rally from the hospital premises, which marched through Mission Bazaar in Parbatipur upazila town. Participants included midwifery and nursing students, along with doctors. An awareness-raising street play was also performed during the event.
Following the rally, a discussion took place at the hospital premises. SS-FGS Project Manager Shailas Baskey and FRRei Project Manager Mahatab Liton delivered welcome speeches, highlighting the significance of the day and the medical, social, and psychological aspects of obstetric fistula. Three fistula survivors shared their personal stories and experiences of suffering from obstetric fistula for many years.
Speakers at the discussion addressed the causes of the preventable condition, available cost-free treatment facilities, and ongoing rehabilitation activities for fistula patients. They provided details on services being offered by LAMB Hospital, various medical college hospitals, district and upazila level hospitals, and union-level health service facilities for identifying and referring patients for treatment.
Mahatab Liton elaborated on the causes of obstetric fistula and the cost-free treatment facilities available in Rangpur and Rajshahi divisions. He stressed the need to eliminate obstetric fistula, a condition that causes urinary incontinence, chronic health issues, depression, and social isolation.
Shailas Baskey emphasized the importance of creating social awareness to prevent child marriage and pregnancy, and to ensure safe institutional deliveries and quality surgeries to eliminate obstetric fistula. The program was moderated by Pratap Barman, Training Coordinator of LLDC-LAMB.