Afia’s first pregnancy

During her first pregnancy, Afia stayed at home, following the advice of her mother and mother-in-law, and did not visit health centres for follow-up care. When she went into labour, they insisted that she remain indoors. Afia experienced a prolonged labour for seven days, and her family believed she could give birth at home since it was her first pregnancy.

On the eighth day, she followed the advice of others who knew about available clinic services. Her family took her to a clinic using a traditional stretcher, making the journey even more painful. At the clinic, her baby was stillborn and had to be removed forcefully. The prolonged labour had caused an obstetric fistula, leaving her incontinent. She returned home without treatment and was advised to wait at home for three months before she could receive care at Mekele.

“When I returned home without a baby and struggling with incontinence, my husband couldn’t bear it and left me that same day. He never came back.” – Afia

Living with fistula

For three months, Afia stayed at home, managing her incontinence with makeshift clothing. Her family lacked access to sufficient water, so her mother and brother had to fetch it from far away to wash her clothes. The smell and her condition drew attention from the community, with some considering it a sin. Afia felt desperate and ashamed, but she found hope through the care and support of her brother and mother.

Finding help and healing

Afia eventually made her way to the Hamlin’s Mekele Fistula Hospital, where she received a bath, and emotional support, which gave her strength and confidence. Seeing other women with similar conditions encouraged her and gave her hope. She was referred to Addis Ababa for treatment, where she received excellent medical care, as well as training and financial support to start her own business.

A fresh start

After treatment, Afia returned to her village and opened a small shop supplying basic necessities to her community.

She remarried, became pregnant again, and returned to the hospital to ensure a safe delivery. Afia is now eagerly awaiting the birth of a healthy baby.

“I am very happy now and my family is filled with joy. I have changed my life and my family’s life through the shop I own. We are all looking forward to a brighter future together.” – Afia

A message from Afia

“I strive to teach other women the importance of visiting health centres during pregnancy. I don’t want any woman to suffer the same pain I experienced during labour. I encourage them to give birth at a health centre for their safety and well-being.

I would like to express my gratitude to Hamlin Fistula for their invaluable support. I urge them to continue their efforts in helping women in need.”