With the slogan “Don't close your eyes. We can end fistula,” a new public service announcement stresses the importance of ensuring access to emergency obstetric care and skilled health professionals—especially midwives—to all women to prevent and help ensure treatment for obstetric fistula.

The PSA, to be launched in African countries in 2012, was developed by the Brazilian illustrator Rodrigo Mafra, based on the soundtrack created by Grupo UAKTI. “As artists, we need to alert society about fistula, hoping that the necessary investments are made so that this issue becomes history,” said Marco Antônio Guimarães, UAKTI’s leader. Fistula is a childbirth injury caused by the lack of skilled attendance during prolonged, obstructed labour. If every woman had access to adequate and timely care, we could end fistula.

Real life stories of three women who suffered from obstetric fistula, but regained their health, dignity and hope.

Engel Entertainment is producing a documentary about five Ethiopian women whose lives have been devastated by obstetric fistula and the difficult journey they undertake to reach the Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital. Watch the 10-minute trailer.