Obstetric Fistula Stories

On International Friendship Day, observed each year on 30 July, we celebrate one of humanity’s most powerful and healing bonds: friendship.

During Birth Trauma Awareness Week in the United Kingdom, we are reminded that birth trauma can affect every part of a woman’s life — her body, her emotional health, her relationships and her sense of self.

At Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia, good nutrition is recognised as an essential foundation of healing for women with childbirth injuries.

Sumaya, a mother of ten from rural Ethiopia, survived a ruptured uterus and obstructed labour. She is now recovering at Hamlin’s Harar Fistula Hospital through the world-renowned Hamlin Model of Care.

After six years of suffering with fistula, Abeba found healing at Hamlin. Her inspiring journey led to restored dignity, a supportive marriage, and two healthy daughters.

Meet Tani, an expectant mother finding safety and community at a Hamlin-supported Maternity Waiting Home in Gorche. These homes play a vital role in preventing obstetric fistula by bringing rural women closer to skilled maternal health care.

After suffering from the physical and social isolation of an obstetric fistula following a traumatic birth, Tiruwork regained her health, dignity, and confidence through specialized surgery and compassionate care at Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia.

After a full year of treatment at the Hamlin Addis Ababa Hospital, Abebech is finally cured