ENHANCING OBSTETRIC FISTULA CARE IN UGANDA: BEST PRACTICES AND PREVENTATIVE MEASURES

The Uganda Village Project (UVP) is an organization dedicated
to improving public health by implementing fistula repair, sexual
reproductive health education, and water sanitation programs. UVP
engaged a Capstone team to optimize its obstetric fistula repair
efforts by identifying, compiling, and evaluating best practices
and preventative strategies. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach,
the team conducted in-depth interviews with key obstetric fistula
stakeholders and reviewed relevant literature to uncover effective
strategies for fistula care. The team’s analysis concentrated on
strategies for overcoming barriers created by cultural norms and
resource limitations, enhancing community engagement around
prevention, and improving surgical techniques and post-operative
management. The team incorporated these findings into a strategic
framework for UVP to enhance its fistula care initiatives, establishing
a benchmark for similar projects in the region and beyond