ENCOURAGING NEWS

The Kathmandu Post

28 May 2017

ENCOURAGING NEWS

Many women, especially in the rural areas, are suffering from various types of gynaecological problems due to lack of awareness and availability of obstetrics care in public health service outlets (“UN stresses on ending shame for women with fistula” May 24, Page 2). Prolapsed uteri and fistulas seems to be the main problems rural women are found living with. Both these problems can be easily prevented before they occur and they can also be easily treated. 

Bearing children at an early age, giving birth to many children and lifting heavy objects are some of the main causes of a prolapsed uterus. Women with this problem suffer a lot and don’t disclose their condition because of feelings of insecurity. Some NGOs are doing wonderful works by raising awareness among the rural women and organizing mobile clinics for their treatment. Many women were successfully treated through mobile clinics.

Likewise, obstetric fistula is a medical condition in which a hole develops either between the rectum and vagina or between the bladder and vagina after prolonged, severe or failed childbirth. It is considered to be a disease of poverty, injury and lack of awareness about reproductive health. There has been no news of an awareness campaign on this issue. In fact, obstetric fistula was not officially recognised in Nepal until UNFPA’s campaign to” End Fistula” was launched in 2010. It was encouraging to know that UNFPA is closely working with the government and other stakeholders to support prevention and treatment by building the capacity of health institutions and service providers.

Rai Biren Bangdel

Maharajgunj

http://kathmandupost.ekantipur.com/printedition/news/2017-05-28/encouraging-news.html