By Ahmed Rufa’i
As the world marks the 2025 International Day to End Obstetric Fistula, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, has announced it has successfully conducted 4,931 free vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) surgeries at its specialized treatment centre in Jahun, Jigawa State, since the project’s inception in 2008.
The milestone was disclosed by Dr. Fatima Aliyu, Medical Activity Manager of the MSF Jahun project, during a media tour of the facility organized by the Family Planning Media Forum, Jigawa State, with support from Development Communications Network (DEVCOMS).
Dr. Aliyu revealed that 74 surgeries have already been carried out in 2025 alone, emphasizing the organization’s unwavering commitment to restoring dignity and hope to women living with obstetric fistula.
She stressed the urgent need for increased awareness around birth preparedness, access to quality antenatal care, and skilled birth attendance, which are crucial to preventing VVF.
“The main causes of obstetric fistula are linked to poor access to quality antenatal services, absence of a clear delivery plan, inadequate monitoring during labor, and delays in emergency interventions such as cesarean sections,” she explained.
Obstetric fistula, a debilitating childbirth injury caused by prolonged obstructed labor, often leaves women incontinent and stigmatized. Dr. Aliyu noted that MSF’s presence in Jigawa has significantly improved access to both basic and comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care across the state.
“Through MSF’s interventions, we have expanded the availability of skilled health workers, improved referral systems, and increased community awareness about the importance of safe childbirth practices,” she said.
She also highlighted family planning and child spacing as powerful tools in reducing not only obstetric fistula but also maternal deaths and complications during pregnancy and childbirth. “Family planning ensures a safer motherhood experience—healthy mothers, healthy babies,” she added.
As part of activities commemorating the World Obstetric Fistula Day, MSF and its partners are calling for greater investment in maternal healthcare, with special focus on ending preventable childbirth injuries and ensuring every woman has access to a skilled birth attendant and emergency care when needed.
