Obstetric Fistula Still Prevalent Among Northern Girls, Says Dr. Sunday Pius
Ojoma Yusuf,Yola
As the world marked International Obstetric Fistula Day on May 23, Dr. Sunday Pius, a gynecologist and Medical Director of Kwaya Clinic and Maternity in Yola, raised alarms over the continued prevalence of obstetric fistula in Northern Nigeria, particularly among teenage girls in Adamawa State.
In an exclusive interview with our reporter, Dr. Pius, who also serves with the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department of Modibbo Adama Teaching Hospital, expressed concern that this entirely preventable condition continues to devastate the lives of young women due to systemic gaps in maternal health care, education, and access to reproductive health services.
“Teenage pregnancy remains one of the leading causes of obstetric fistula,” Dr. Pius explained. “Many of these girls have underdeveloped pelvic structures, leading to prolonged and obstructed labor. This pressure causes a rupture between the birth canal and the bladder or rectum, resulting in fistula.”
He added that while teenage girls are more vulnerable, older women can also suffer from fistula during complicated or prolonged labor, particularly those with conditions like spinal deformities or cephalopelvic disproportion.
Dr. Pius noted that Northern Nigeria sees higher rates of fistula cases due to entrenched practices such as early marriage and limited access to skilled maternity care. “Out of every 1,000 deliveries in the North, two to three result in obstetric fistula,” he revealed. “Although we lack specific data for Adamawa, we are still treating many active cases.”
Beyond the physical health consequences, Dr. Pius emphasized the deep social and emotional toll. “These women often face divorce, isolation, and economic hardship.
Many, according to him, are shunned by their communities because of incontinence and the accompanying odor. They suffer from depression and lose access to education and social life.”
Highlighting prevention, Dr. Pius called for a multifaceted approach centered on girl-child education. “An educated girl understands the risks of early pregnancy, the value of antenatal care, and the importance of skilled birth attendance,” he said. “Education gives her the power to make informed decisions about her health and future.”
He also underscored the importance of family planning in reducing fistula rates. “When women can space their pregnancies and avoid early or high-risk childbirth, the chances of complications drop significantly. Family planning is essential for safeguarding maternal health.”
Dr. Pius concluded with a passionate appeal to parents and communities. “Let our daughters go to school. Give them the space to grow, learn, and mature before marriage. Educating a girl is educating a nation. The idea that educating girls is a waste must be completely eliminated from our society.”
The message from Dr. Pius aligns with global efforts to end obstetric fistula and ensure every woman has access to safe childbirth and a life of dignity.
