VVF AND RVF

Vesico vaginal fistula (VVF) or recto vaginal fistula (RVF) are holes resulting from the breakdown in the tissue between the vaginal wall and the bladder or rectum caused by unrelieved obstructed labour. The consequences of such damage are urinary or faecal incontinence and related conditions such as dermatitis and erosion of the skin and other tissues in the vulva and vagina from the constant leaking of urine or faeces. In extreme cases the urethra, bladder and vaginal wall can be completely eroded. If nerves to the lower limbs are damaged women can develop foot-drop, a loss of co-ordination with one or both of the lower limbs.

In addition to these physical problems, VVF and RVF cause acute social problems. Due to constant leaking of urine or faeces and the accompanying smell, most communities consider these women outcasts and cut them off from all social activities. Commuting in public transport and engaging in social activities such as weddings and naming ceremonies becomes difficult. If the fistulae are not repaired, their husbands may divorce the women. Some leave their families to roam in the cities where they are not known as the outlook for them remains bleak in the community.

Click here to watch a documentary on the VVF project by White Tara Productions.

FORWARD has put in place appropriate integrated development programmes that are community based and sustainable. This approach strengthens the local capacity available to women to improve their health and social environment through the implementation of co-ordinated model programmes. The programmes we have address the social and economic status of the community as a whole with focus on girl-child education, adult literacy and income generating skills development for women of childbearing age. We also work at making sure appropriate, affordable and accessible health services provision at the grassroots level. FORWARD collaborates WoManBeing Concern Int.