Nov 29, 2017 | Project

DIMOL - Fistule Obstétricale (Santé de la Reproduction pour une Maternité Sans Risqué)

Construction of an Operating Theatre at the Niamey Medical Centre in Niger

Republic of Niger

Overview

In Niger most of the population live in rural areas far from medical care. Due to the prevalence of early marriage and home childbirth, the risk of fistula development during pregnancy is high. In many cases these go untreated with the attendant social consequences of exclusion. The DIMOL - Fistule Obstétricale project was therefore formed to provide women suffering from obstetric fistula with access to good health and surgical services.

 Key activities included the repair and refurbishment of an operating theatre in Niamey, Niger, sinking a well to supply sufficient water for fistula sufferers to maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards, and training surgeons in the treatment of fistulas.  The project, initiated in 2011, became inactive due to disagreements and delays, but was reactivated in 2013. Hospitals in Niamey, Tahoua, Zinder and Maradii were equipped with specialist facilities for surgery on fistulas. Furthermore, the project assisted with the reintegration at least 40 patients, who were considered medically incurable, back into their communities.

Key results

  • Assisted women suffering from obstetric fistula with increased access to good health and surgical services.  
  • Four hospitals in Niamey, Tahoua, Zinder and Maradi in Niger were equipped with specialist facilities for surgery on fistulas. Furthermore, the project assisted in reintegrating fistula patients, who were considered medically incurable, back into their communities
  • The project facilitated digging of a well to supply sufficient water for fistula sufferers to maintain cleanliness and standards of hygiene.
  • Two surgeons were trained in the treatment of fistulas.