From Outcast to Fistula Advocate: Hellen Guti's Journey to Dignity

Hellen Guti’s life took a devastating turn after a difficult childbirth, leaving her with a condition that brought immense shame and isolation. Married at just 14 in Uganda’s Kalaki District, her pregnancy was marked by a late antenatal care visit and severe bleeding.

This medical emergency resulted in obstetric fistula, a condition where a prolonged labor causes a hole between the birth canal and the bladder or rectum, leading to continuous leakage of urine or feces. For nearly ten years, Guti suffered the indignity and social stigma associated with her condition, leading to her ostracization by her family and community. She was even labelled a witch.

Her life, however, began to change when she eventually received surgical treatment that repaired the damage and restored her dignity. This life-altering experience inspired Guti to become an advocate for other women suffering from fistula.

Recognizing the widespread need for such services, a new network in Uganda is working to ensure that more women like Guti can receive timely diagnosis and treatment. This initiative aims to reduce the suffering caused by fistula, offering hope and a path to recovery for those who have endured similar hardships.

Through her personal story and tireless advocacy, Hellen Guti is shining a light on obstetric fistula, striving to break the silence and stigma surrounding this preventable condition and championing access to essential medical care for all affected women.