World Obstetric Fistula Day: MSF Performs 4,931 Free VVF Surgeries in Jigawa

Médecins Sans Frontières, also known as Doctors Without Borders (MSF), has performed free Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF) surgeries on 4,931 patients at the Jahun VVF center in Jigawa since 2008.

These details were shared by Ms. Fatima Aliyu, the Medical Activity Manager for the MSF project in Jahun, when she responded to journalists' queries at the center. This visit was part of the media tour hosted at the facility to mark the 2025 World Obstetric Fistula Day celebrations. The event was organized by the Family Planning Media Forum Jigawa State with support from DEVCOMS.

The Medical Activity Manager for the MSF project stated that "In 2025, 74 surgical procedures were carried out, bringing the overall total to 4,931 operations since the initiative started in 2008."

Dr. Fatima Aliyu highlighted the necessity for "greater understanding about the significance of well-planned pregnancies, being ready for childbirth and potential complications, having access to high-quality prenatal care along with a clear birthing plan, and making sure that a trained professional attends the labor and delivery."

As per her statement, "The primary reasons behind obstetric fistulas include inadequate access to high-quality prenatal care that emphasizes delivery planning, a negative mindset regarding birth preparation, insufficient readiness for potential complications, absence of professional assistance during childbirth, inadequate supervision of women in labor, failure to anticipate issues and provide timely interventions, swift referrals for cesarean sections when needed, and shortages of trained personnel."

She emphasized that family planning and child spacing are crucial strategies for controlling instances of "ensuring a safe motherhood experience (a healthy mother, a healthy baby)," thereby decreasing overall maternal morbidity and mortality rates, not limited solely to obstetric fistulas.

Dr. Aliyu asserted that the presence of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) enhances access to fundamental and advanced emergency obstetric and neonatal services in Jigawa State. He further explained that "MSF boosts the provision of essential materials and trained personnel, ensures timely referrals, and promotes health education to raise awareness about pregnancy preparation, professional delivery assistance, and being ready for potential complications."

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