Monday 23rd May 2022 marks the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula, the devastating injury caused during an obstructed labor, affecting tens of thousands of women in Ethiopia, who struggle to access maternal health care. 

As part of International Women’s Day 2022, Hamlin is reflecting on the importance of breaking the bias that obstetric fistula patients face. We want to see a world free of stereotypes and discrimination. A world where access to equitable and holistic health care empowers women to determine their own futures. International Women's Day 2022 The […]

For half of her life, a horrific childbirth injury defined Mulu. Obstetric fistula stole Mulu’s joy, confidence, and relationships for 17 years. Today, thanks to a diversion surgery at Hamlin’s Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital, she is regaining her health, happiness, and sense of self. Four arduous days Mulu was born and raised in Benishangul-Gumuz, a […]

An obstetric fistula injury nearly cost Zemzem her life. For over a decade, she felt hopeless, ashamed and alone – until she underwent treatment at Hamlin’s Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital.  Rural and remote: Zemzem's life before fistula Zemzem’s village is nestled in the mountains of the Amhara region in northern Ethiopia. To access basic services – like transport, electricity, […]

Five days. For five perilous days, Almaz endured an obstructed labor in her small Ethiopian village without a midwife. Without appropriate medical care, Almaz’s condition seriously deteriorated, and led to her suffering an obstetric fistula injury. The devastating impact of those five days without a midwife would be felt for ten long years. A life […]

Growing up in a rural village in southwestern Ethiopia, Kuma did not have access to quality maternal healthcare. As a result, she experienced an obstructed labor at home that resulted in her suffering obstetric fistula injuries. Kuma suffered with fistula for over ten years before she was identified and given life-changing treatment at Hamlin’s Addis […]

​​Can you imagine discovering that you are pregnant with your second child? Imagine the anticipation as you and your loved ones prepare to welcome a new addition to your family. Imagine waiting for days in excruciating pain as you suffer an obstructed labor without the help of a midwife or medical professional. Imagine traveling, almost […]

Obstetric fistula took a year from Tarekech’s life. For months, Tarekech's childbirth injury caused her to feel ashamed and worried about the state of her bed sheets and clothes. Thanks to the work of Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia’s Clinical Team, Tarekech is now dry and ready to start a new chapter of her life at the […]