International Day to End Obstetric Fistula (IDEOF) is observed on 23 May by the United Nations to increase the attention to affected women and prioritize girls and their health. In 2003, the United Nations Population Fund (UNPF), formerly known as the United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA) and its partners had launched a global campaign to End Obstetric Fistula.
The theme for 2020 IDEOF is “End gender inequality! End health inequities! End Fistula now!”. The theme urges universal access to quality maternal health care, preventive measures.
An obstetric fistula is a hole between the birth canal and rectum (bladder) that is caused by prolonged obstructed labor, leaving a woman incontinent of urine or feces or both. The injury occurs during childbirth. It leaves women incontinent, and as a result they are often shunned by their communities.
Obstetric fistula can be preventable. It can be avoided by delaying the age of first pregnancy, the cessation of harmful traditional practices, and timely access to obstetric care.
The United Nations first observed the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula in 2013. The day aims to raise awareness of this issue and mobilize support around the globe.