Companions Fistula is a condition that affects mostly women who are pregnant or have recently given birth.

It is a traumatic injury resulting from prolonged labor, when the baby’s head puts pressure on the pelvic floor muscles and tissues for an extended period, causing a hole to develop between the vagina and the bladder or rectum. This hole allows urine or feces to leak uncontrollably through the vagina, leading to long-term health risks if left untreated.

The Symptoms of Companions Fistula

The most common symptom of Companions Fistula is involuntary leakage of urine or feces through the vagina, especially during physical activity or when the bladder or bowel is full. Other symptoms may include:.

Lower abdominal pain
Pain during sexual intercourse
Foul-smelling discharge from the vagina

The Dangers of Companions Fistula

If left untreated, Companions Fistula can lead to numerous health complications, including:.

1. Urinary Tract Infections

As urine continuously leaks through the vagina, the risk of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI) increases dramatically.

A persistent UTI can lead to kidney damage or sepsis, a life-threatening condition that occurs when bacteria enters the bloodstream.

2. Skin Irritation and Infections

The constant dampness of the genital areas can cause skin irritation, rashes, and infections. This is because the urine and feces may contain harmful bacteria that can cause skin irritation and other skin diseases.

3. Infertility and Sexual Dysfunction

Companions Fistula can also affect a woman’s fertility and sexual function. Scar tissue may form around the vaginal opening, causing narrowing or complete closure, making sexual intercourse painful or impossible.

Additionally, as the continuous leakage can lead to chronic infection, the reproductive organs can become permanently damaged, leading to infertility.

4. Mental Health Issues

Women living with untreated Companions Fistula may experience emotional and psychological trauma, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

The constant humiliation and social isolation can affect self-esteem, leading to social and economic exclusion as they are perceived as ‘unclean,’ leading to job loss and poorer living standards.

Treatment Options for Companions Fistula

The good news is that Companions Fistula can be treated, and women can go back to enjoying a full and healthy life.

Treatment options depend on the severity of the fistula, with small fistulas closing on their own after a few months; however, larger or persistent fistulas usually require surgery.

1. Surgery

Surgery is the most common treatment for Companions Fistula.

A surgeon may use a vaginal approach, making an incision in the vagina, or an abdominal approach may involve making an incision in the lower abdomen, depending on the size and location of the fistula. Ideally, the operation should be carried out by skilled and experienced surgeons who specialize in treating Companions Fistula.

2. Conservative Management

In some cases, Companions Fistula may need to be treated with conservative management, which may include antibiotics to treat infection, catheterization to drain urine, or drainage of a perianal abscess in the case of rectovaginal fistula while waiting for the fistula to heal.

Preventing Companions Fistula

Companions Fistula is a preventable condition; however, it is essential to have access to quality antenatal care and maternal health services. Here are some tips to preventing this condition:.

1. Antenatal Care

Mothers should attend antenatal clinics during their pregnancy to access quality care and get regular checkups.

Antenatal services such as ultrasounds can detect early stage fetal distress reducing the risk of prolonged labor increasing risk for Companions Fistula.

2. End Female Genital Mutilation

Female genital mutilation (FGM) increases the risk of Companions Fistula. Advocating and mobilizing efforts to end this practice helps stop Companions Fistula related to it.

3. Giving Birth Deliveries by Skilled Health Professionals

Mothers should be supported by skilled health professionals during childbirth to avoid prolonged labors, which could lead to Companions Fistula and other childbirth-related injuries.

Conclusion

Companions Fistula is a devastating condition that can cause severe health complications if left untreated.

While it is preventable, there is an urgent need to prioritize antenatal and maternal healthcare services to ensure that women receive quality care and are educated on ways to prevent Companions Fistula. With timely and appropriate medical care, women with Companions Fistula can recover and regain full and healthy lives.