In the United States, pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is relatively common. Most cases are diagnosed and treated early so the outcomes for women are good. In Ethiopia, it’s a very different situation.

Haile’s happy life with her new husband in the remote hillside village of Yirgachefe in South Ethiopia was shattered when she lost her baby in childbirth and sustained a fistula injury three years ago.

Abebech’s story is like that of many women in remote parts of Ethiopia. She had nothing when she arrived at a Hamlin Yirgalem fistula hospital but then she received a Comfort Package.

Leyat and her husband Amarech spent all their money searching for a cure for Leyat’s obstetric fistula injuries. Her life changed when she arrived at Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia.

Celebrate incredible women this International Women's Day! When we inspire others to understand and value women's inclusion, we forge a better world.

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 […]