In Kakamega, Men Are Helping Connect Women to Fistula Care.

For a woman living with obstetric fistula, reaching treatment may begin with someone willing to listen, challenge stigma and help her find care.

In Kakamega, WADADIA’s Male Involvement Group leaders are taking fistula awareness into their communities, engaging men, families and local leaders in conversations about prevention, identification and referral.

Their work addresses a critical community-level barrier: women experiencing fistula may face shame, isolation and limited information about where to seek help. Trusted community voices can help challenge misconceptions and encourage women and their families to seek appropriate medical assessment.

Through community dialogue, the male involvement groups work to:

• Raise awareness of obstetric fistula and the importance of timely treatment.
• Encourage recognition of possible symptoms and referral to health facilities.
• Engage men and local leaders in supporting women’s access to care.
• Challenge stigma and promote women’s dignity.

This work also contributes to WADADIA’s broader community advocacy against gender-based violence and its efforts to promote safer, healthier communities.

The approach is grounded in a practical principle: health services become more accessible when communities know what to look for, where to seek help and how to support those who need care.

WADADIA’s male involvement groups are part of the community relationships that help connect awareness with action.

Help spread the message

Obstetric fistula is a childbirth injury that can cause continuous leakage of urine or stool. It is treatable, and women affected by it deserve compassionate care, not stigma.

If you know someone experiencing persistent leakage following childbirth, encourage her to seek assessment at a health facility and help her connect with appropriate care.

Community change can begin with one conversation and that conversation can help someone take the next step towards treatment.