LAHORE: Pakistan National Forum on Women’s Health‘s leading health experts have issued a multi point call to action to eradicate obstetric fistula in Pakistan, aligning with the 2026 International Day to End Obstetric Fistula theme “Her Health Is a Right: Invest to End Fistula and Childbirth Injuries”.
Prof. Shamila Ijaz and Dr. Rodaba Khan from Sir Ganga Ram Hospital Lahore said on satureday that Obstetric fistula is a debilitating injury caused by prolonged, obstructed labor or surgical errors, remains a significant challenge in Pakistan, with an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 new cases surfacing every year.
Associate Prof. Dr.Muhammad Asif,Associate Prof. Dr.Bushra Haq and Associate Prof. Dr. Ali watto also expressed in conference. They emphasized that achieving the United Nations’ goal of ending maternal mortality and morbidity by 2030 is possible if the government implements seven critical steps .
Training and posting competent, skilled midwives in every Basic Health Unit (BHU) and Tehsil Headquarter Hospital (THQ).
Providing midwives with a formal service structure, career advancement opportunities, and salary increments.
Ensuring BHUs and THQs in rural Pakistan and urban slums are fully functional and equipped.
Guaranteeing free basic and emergency obstetric services for all pregnant women.
Adopting immediate catheter treatment protocols, which can lead to spontaneous healing in 25–30% of patients.
Equipping young doctors and gynecologists with specialized training in safe pelvic surgeries to prevent iatrogenic fistula (injuries caused during medical procedures).
Addressing the “unacceptably high” rate of C-sections currently seen across the country.
Health experts add that Fistula survivors often face devastating physical and social consequences, including chronic pain, incontinence, and deep-seated social isolation.
Reported By: Staff Reporter ,Lahore I May 23, 2026
