In a dedicated move to eliminate obstetric fistula (OF) in Ghana, the Koforidua Regional Hospital in the Eastern Region has begun free surgical repairs as part of nationwide activities marking the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula (IDEOF). Despite preparations to treat six women, only three patients turned up for surgery.
Dr. Francis Wuobar, Head of the Surgical Department, expressed concern over the no-shows. “We had everything in place—teams, equipment, and schedules—but three of the patients failed to report,” he told the Ghana News Agency. “This underscores the need for stronger community outreach to locate and support hidden cases.”
The hospital is one of five facilities selected to perform free OF surgeries from May 23 to May 30, aligning with the global theme, “Breaking the Cycle: Preventing Fistula Worldwide.” Ghana is emphasizing a localized motto: “Her Health, Her Right: Shaping a Future Without Fistula in Ghana.”
Obstetric fistula, a severe childbirth injury caused by prolonged obstructed labour, often leaves women incontinent and socially ostracized. Although treatable, access to surgical care remains a major barrier—made worse by stigma and limited public awareness.
Dr. Foster Amponsah-Manu, the hospital’s Clinical Director, emphasized the facility’s readiness to collaborate with external surgeons. “We don’t yet have a resident fistula specialist, but we are building local capacity by working with experienced teams from across the country,” he said.
Ms. Gisela Sena Dzebu, Matron of the Surgical Block, affirmed the hospital’s commitment: “We’re always ready to support fistula survivors. This is more than surgery—it’s restoring dignity.”
National statistics indicate a troubling gap between incidence and treatment. Approximately 1,352 women per 751,000 deliveries develop OF annually in Ghana, yet only 40% of these cases are repaired, according to a 2015 Ghana Health Service report.
The United Nations estimates over 2 million women worldwide live with fistula, with 50,000–100,000 new cases reported annually. Many go untreated due to poverty, stigma, or lack of access to care.
The weeklong IDEOF observance aims to increase awareness, improve access to emergency obstetric care, and advocate for survivors’ reintegration into society. It also reminds the public and policymakers alike that the fight against fistula is not just a medical issue—it is a matter of human rights and social justice.
Koforidua Regional Hospital’s partial success in this year’s campaign reflects both progress and the ongoing challenges in reaching all women in need. Health officials are urging communities to help identify hidden cases and encourage affected women to come forward for life-changing treatment.
