The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has said that Nigeria is one of the countries with the highest annual cases of Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF). VVF is an abnormal fistulous tract extending between the bladder (vesica) and the vagina, that leads to the continuous involuntary discharge of urine into the vaginal vault.
Speaking at an interview, the Country Representative of UNFPA, Ulla Muller, said that Nigeria has recorded about 148,000 cases of fistula, with about 12,000 cases annually.
Muller said that preventive and curative interventions such as family planning, community engagement, and training of healthcare workers are all key to preventing fistula cases, interventions that are part of UNFPA’s commitment in Nigeria.
She attributed the prevalence of VVF to child marriage and advised young women with the condition to seek immediate medical help without the fear of stigmatisation.
Describing Nigerian fistula surgeons as some of the best in the world, Muller stated that it is advisable for women living with the condition to avoid pregnancy for at least 12 months.
Source: Premium Times
Photo source: UNICEF Ethiopia
