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Vesicovaginal fistula
Mostly from obstructed labour in Pakistan — prevent with a catheter.
Source: ICS/ICI · WHO · UNFPA- About 4,000–5,000 new cases a year in Pakistan; a growing share follow surgery (CS, hysterectomy).
- Continuous leakage, often 7–10 days after birth.
- Tests: dye (three-swab) test, cystoscopy, CT urogram for ureteric injury.
- Small fresh fistula: continuous catheter drainage may heal it.
- Repair once oedema and infection settle; catheter 10–14 days after simple repair.
- After prolonged or obstructed labour: leave a catheter in for 10–14 days to prevent fistula.
Koohi Goth Women’s Hospital, Karachi, is a UNFPA regional centre for fistula repair and training.
A summary for trained clinicians. Always check the full guideline, the patient in front of you and your hospital's protocol. Spotted an error? Tell us.