What is VVF?
Vesicovaginal Fistula VVF is a type of Fistula that is an abnormal opening that forms between the bladder and the vagina, which leads to incontinence of Urine.
The second type of Fistula is Rectovaginal Fistula RVF; this is an abnormal opening that forms between the rectum and the vagina, which leads to incontinence of the Feces.
There are different causes of VVF and RVF. The primary cause is obstructed labor. There are some cases caused by female genital mutilation and other traditional practices.
VVF FACTS AND STATISTICS
50-100K
"Each year between 50- 100K women worldwide are affected by obstetric fistula, an abnormal opening between a woman’s genital tract and her urinary tract or rectum.
- WHO Feb 2018
6%
"Obstructed labor accounts for up to 6% of all maternal deaths. It is a cause of maternal mortality and morbidity." -WHO Feb 2018
2M
The development of obstetric fistula is directly linked to one of the major causes of maternal mortality: obstructed labor. Women who experience obstetric fistula suffer constant incontinence, shame, social segregation, and health problems. It is estimated that more than 2 million young women live with untreated obstetric fistula in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa".