Obstetrische en traumatische fistels: Situatie in oost-congo

Obstetric and traumatic fistulas remain a major health problem in developing countries. Worldwide, more than two million women suffer from urogenital fistulas. Gynaecological fistulas are mainly caused by obstetric complications, though in areas of violent ethnic conflicts - such as the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo - an increasing incidence of traumatic fistulas resulting from sexual violence, is observed. In this manuscript, the problematic situation in Eastern Congo is clarified, demonstrating that extra help is still needed, politically as well as medically.