After three long days of labor, Zahara was still trying to deliver at home with the help of a traditional birth attendant (TBA). Assured by her husband that she’d be fine, she kept trying—despite the severe pain and lack of progress. Her baby was too large, and her birth canal too narrow, but the TBA continued urging her to push. Eventually, her husband took her to another TBA who attempted a vacuum extraction. It worked, but it left her with a devastating 4th-degree tear. What followed was an unbearable chapter in her life—passing stool and gas uncontrollably, living with shame, isolation, and the emotional toll of an obstetric fistula.
Though she suffered in silence, she wasn’t completely alone. Her husband, ever supportive, kept reminding her that one day, she would heal. That day came when a neighbor told her about a UVP fistula treatment camp being held at Kamuli Mission Hospital. At first, she didn’t believe it—her neighbor was known for jokes—but when she heard the announcement on the radio herself, hope took root. Her husband arranged transport, and in June 2022, Zahara made it to the camp for surgery.
After a successful repair, she was invited to participate in UVP’s reintegration program. With her husband’s blessing, she was able to join the eight-week program as it was “an opportunity not to be missed”.
Grateful for the second chance she received, Zahara has served as a UVP fistula ambassador since having surgery, helping identify other women in need—just as someone once did for her.
Today, she sews beautifully, earns a stable income, and helps pay school fees and household expenses.