A fate worse than death for scores of African women

By Morgan Winsor, CNN

Updated 1858 GMT (0258 HKT) May 23, 2013

A 16-year-old girl awaits surgery at HEAL Africa hospital in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Her baby died after six days of labor, and she continuously leaks urine because of obstetric fistula.
Photos: An end to shame, rejection
An end to shame, rejection – A 16-year-old girl awaits surgery at HEAL Africa hospital in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Her baby died after six days of labor, and she continuously leaks urine because of obstetric fistula.
Hide Caption
1 of 5
This woman, who has suffered from fistula for 20 years, watches as staff prepare for her surgery.
Photos: An end to shame, rejection
An end to shame, rejection – This woman, who has suffered from fistula for 20 years, watches as staff prepare for her surgery.
Hide Caption
2 of 5
Doctors and staff at HEAL Africa explain to a patient what to expect as they prepare her for fistula surgery.
Photos: An end to shame, rejection
Doctors and staff at HEAL Africa explain to a patient what to expect as they prepare her for fistula surgery.
Hide Caption
3 of 5
Dr. Cathy Furaha, the only female fistula surgeon in the Democratic Republic of Congo, tells a patient her operation was a success.
Photos: An end to shame, rejection
An end to shame, rejection – Dr. Cathy Furaha, the only female fistula surgeon in the Democratic Republic of Congo, tells a patient her operation was a success.
Hide Caption
4 of 5
These women have fully recovered and received support through HEAL Africa's Safe Motherhood Program.
Photos: An end to shame, rejection
An end to shame, rejection – These women have fully recovered and received support through HEAL Africa's Safe Motherhood Program.
Hide Caption
5 of 5
africa fistulaafrica fistula 2aftrica fistula surgeryafrica fistula post surgeryafrica fistula recovery

Story highlights

  • African women with obstetric fistula see themselves as the walking dead, doctor says
  • Fistula can be repaired with delicate surgery and follow-up care
  • Many African hospitals and doctors lack education and expertise
  • Thursday is the first-ever International Day to End Obstetric Fistula