DeLauro, Maloney Introduce Resolution In Recognition Of the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula

WASHINGTON, DC—Congresswomen Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Carolyn Maloney, supported by eleven of their colleagues, today introduced a resolution recognizing International Day to End Obstetric Fistula, which is tomorrow, May 23. DeLauro has previously introduced legislation to help end obstetric fistula, a preventable medical condition that results from prolonged, obstructed childbirth.

“Obstetric fistula, a debilitating condition, has left hundreds of thousands of women suffering in solitude and shame,” DeLauro said. “It is perhaps one of the most telling examples of inequitable access to maternal health care and, until recently, one of the most hidden. Addressing this issue is not only a moral imperative for the United States, but it is also in our best strategic interest. When women are pushed out of society, they cannot contribute. By treating and preventing this condition, we empower women to care for themselves and their families, and be active participants in society, greatly reducing global poverty. The International Day to End Obstetric Fistula is an important opportunity to raise awareness of a condition that is not well-understood, even in societies where it is prevalent. I urge everyone to use tomorrow’s day of recognition to help raise awareness and intensify actions towards ending obstetric fistula.”

"We have the power to completely eliminate the condition known as Obstetric fistula and help the 2 million women around the globe who suffer from this condition," Maloney said. "This entirely preventable condition causes so much heartbreak and suffering for women in the developing world. It's hard to believe we've turned a blind eye for so long. This resolution will help raise awareness and generate support for action."

According to the World Health Organization, an estimated two million women live with obstetric fistula in the developing world. Between 50,000 and 100,000 new cases develop annually, and women and girls in sub-Saharan Africa are disproportionately affected.

The resolution is cosponsored by Democratic Representatives John Conyers, Raúl Grijalva, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Ted Deutch, Jim McGovern, Alan Lowenthal, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Gregory Meeks, Karen Bass, Grace Meng and Jim McDermott.