Ending Obstetric Fistula: A Journey of Hope and Resilience with Bonnie Ruder

On Health

"I think one of the most important things about fistula is that it is completely preventable and treatable. So this is a solvable problem. We used to have this problem here in the US and now we don't." – Bonnie Ruder

Obstetric fistula affects around 2 million women globally, with 50,000 to 100,000 new cases each year. This devastating, yet entirely preventable condition profoundly impacts women's lives, causing chronic infections, incontinence, and severe social ostracism and isolation.

In this powerful new episode, I’m joined by Bonnie Ruder, midwife, medical anthropologist, and co-founder of Terrewode Women's Fund. Together, we explore the:

• The definition and causes of obstetric fistula - and why this should never happen to any woman, anywhere in the world
• The nefarious history of obstetric fistula surgery on enslaved women in the United States
• The medical, personal, and social impacts of fistula on women's lives — and their incredible resilience
• Bonnie's journey from home birth midwife to fistula activist
• Holistic treatment approaches: medical care, social reintegration, and economic empowerment
• Efforts to prevent fistula through better access to maternal healthcare and the role of traditional birth attendants in fistula prevention

Tune into this heart-wrenching yet inspiring episode to learn more about the impact of obstetric fistula and the incredible work being done to confront it.

Terrewode Women’s Fund's mission to end obstetric fistula in Uganda are truly inspiring. 🌍 To learn more and support the work of Terrewode:

🔗 Website: terrewodewomensfund.org

📸 Instagram: @terrewodewomensfund

Mentioned in this episode:

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