Free Surgeries Bring Hope to 50 Women Battling VVF in Gombe
From Abubakar Rabilu, Gombe
In a significant humanitarian intervention, 50 women suffering from vesico-vaginal fistulas (VVF) have received free medical surgeries in Gombe State, courtesy of a collaborative initiative by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Norwegian Government, and the Fistula Foundation Nigeria (FFN).
The surgeries, performed at the Specialist Hospital in Gombe, aimed to address the debilitating effects of VVF. This medical condition is marked by an abnormal connection between the bladder and the vagina, resulting in continuous and uncontrollable urinary leakage.
VVF remains a pressing health issue in northern Nigeria, often caused by obstructed labor, early marriages, poverty, and limited access to healthcare services. Beyond the physical pain, women living with VVF face significant social stigma and isolation, which further compounds their challenges.
Dr. Sa’ad Idris, the lead surgeon, described the procedures as highly successful, expressing optimism about the recovery of the patients. He commended the initiative for giving these women a chance to rebuild their lives.
Representing the Director of FFN, Musa Isa, Ibrahim Abubakar highlighted the life-changing impact of the program. He noted that it has restored hope to women who endured years of suffering due to the condition.
Dr. Garba Mohamed, a program officer at the Specialist Hospital, emphasized the importance of post-surgery care. He urged the beneficiaries to follow medical advice closely to ensure complete recovery and to avoid complications.
“The stigma and isolation faced by women with VVF are often more damaging than the medical condition itself,” Dr. Garba stated. He explained that many women are abandoned by their families due to misconceptions about the condition and the associated odor.
This program, however, did more than provide medical treatment. It offered these women a renewed sense of dignity and hope, helping them reintegrate into society with confidence.
Beneficiaries expressed profound gratitude to UNFPA, the Norwegian Government, FFN, and the Gombe State Government for their support. They called on other organizations and stakeholders to implement similar initiatives to assist more women living with this condition.
This intervention underscores the commitment of both international and local organizations to tackling critical health challenges, improving the well-being of women, and promoting community development in Nigeria.
