For four long years, Amina Hassan (not real name) endured the silence of suffering from obstetric fistula. What had begun as a joyous occasion—the birth of her first child—soon turned into a painful ordeal that left her isolated and hopeless. Amina got married at the age of 14, and due to prolonged labor lasting 48 hours and a lack of timely medical access at a nearby health facility, she developed a fistula. This devastating childbirth injury caused constant leakage of urine and a persistent foul odor.
At first, Amina did not understand what had happened to her. She tried home remedies and sought help from local healers, but nothing worked. The condition affected her not only physically but also emotionally. Friends and even some family members kept their distance. She withdrew from society, burdened with shame and despair, and her husband eventually divorced her.
Despite the hardships, Amina never lost hope. One day, an outreach team from Women Education and Health for Development (WOHED) conducting community awareness about fistula visited her village and spoke about Garissa County Referral Hospital, which provided free fistula treatment. Encouraged by the team of hope, Amina mustered the courage to seek medical help. With her mother’s support, she traveled to the facility, she was warmly welcomed her.
The operation was successful. After years of suffering, Amina awoke to a new reality—one where she no longer had to endure the pain and shame of fistula. The doctors and nurses guided her through the recovery process, providing both medical care and emotional support.
Amina stayed at the hospital for a few weeks to ensure full healing, and for the first time in four years, she felt a sense of hope. With physical therapy and counseling, she regained her strength and confidence. Amina was discharged dry.
Determined to make a difference, Amina became an advocate for maternal health. She now educates other women about the importance of seeking medical help during pregnancy and childbirth.
Today, Amina walks with her head held high, living proof that even after years of suffering, hope and healing are possible.
