MOZAMBIQUE: Overcoming Obstetric Fistula Boosts Self Esteem
Notícias reported on 28 December, that overcoming obstetric fistula boosts self esteem. The report tells stories of fistula survivors in the rural district of Mossurize, in the central province of Manica.
Maria Gaveia, one of the featured survivors who lived with fistula for 27 years, says that “my self esteem has improved (after treatment). I was desperate, but now I don’t face any discrimination.” The report, which was linked to the launch of the national fistula strategy, quotes the UNFPA country Representative, Mrs. Bettina Maas, saying that fistula is one of the worst faces of gender inequalities and poor access to sexual and reproductive health.
Dr. Alexandre Manguele, Mozambique’s Minister of Health, says in the report that improving girl’s education, delaying the first pregnancy until the age of 18 and providing basic obstetric care are important measures to avoid fistula. The report mentioned that UNFPA is working with the government in the battle against fistula. Read in Portuguese: Noticias