A month-long campaign to identify obstetric fistula patients was held in Raiganj upazila on Tuesday. Photo: BSS

SIRAJGANJ, May 7, 2025 (BSS) - Speakers at a meeting have unanimously observed that raising awareness, especially among people in remote and hard-to-reach areas, is crucial to preventing and mitigating obstetric fistula-a severe childbirth-related injury.

They also noted that early identification of patients suffering from obstetric fistula is vital for timely treatment and rehabilitation, as both government and non-government organizations are actively working in this field.

Health experts and development activists made these remarks at the opening ceremony of a month-long campaign to identify fistula patients in Raiganj upazila of the district on Tuesday (May 6).

LAMB, a health and development NGO, organized the campaign at Raiganj Upazila Health Complex in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to mark the upcoming International Obstetric Fistula Free Day on May 23.

Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer Dr AFM Obaidul Islam addressed the event as the chief guest, while Upazila Family Planning Officer Raihanul Haque attended as special guest. Medical Officer Dr Kaisarul Islam presided over the programme.

During his concept paper presentation, LAMB District Facilitator Ruhul Amin Mridha outlined the objectives and expected outcomes of the campaign. He also provided an overview of obstetric fistula, its causes, and both preventive and curative measures.

Participants, including health and family planning staff and field workers, were urged to carry out their responsibilities with sincerity and dedication to help ensure all fistula patients are identified and brought under treatment and rehabilitation programs.

In his speech, Dr Obaidul Islam said obstetric fistula is one of the most serious and tragic childbirth injuries. It is caused by prolonged, obstructed labor without timely access to quality medical care and results in a hole between the birth canal and the bladder and/or rectum.

"This condition causes incontinence, often leading to chronic health issues, depression, social isolation, and deepening poverty," he said.

He further emphasized that obstetric fistula is entirely preventable with proper medical support and that its continued occurrence is a stark reminder of persistent inequalities.