Overcoming fistula: A survivor’s remarkable story

NAMORROI, Mozambique – In just one year, the life of 21-year-old Carleta Eugenio Francisco has transformed completely. Before, she was isolated in her community in Namarroi District, Mozambique, stigmatized for suffering from the effects of obstetric fistula – a hole in the birth canal caused by prolonged, obstructed labour.

But today, with treatment, she has reclaimed her confidence and her life. “I want to go continue my education to become a nurse in the future, to help save the lives of young pregnant women in my community,” she told UNFPA. See more