Obstetric fistula in low-income countries.

Objective: To identify, survey, and systematically review the current knowledge regarding obstetric fistula as a public health problem in low-income countries from the peer-reviewed literature.

Methods: The Medline and Science Citation Index databases were searched to identify public health articles on obstetric fistula in low-income countries. Quantitative evidence-based papers were reviewed.

Results: Thirty-three articles met the criteria for inclusion: 18 hospital-based reviews; 6 on risk factors/prevention; 4 on prevalence/incidence measurement; 3 on consequences of obstetric fistula; and 2 on community-based assessments.

Conclusion: Obstetric fistula has received increased international attention as a public health problem, but reliable research on the burden of disease and interventions is lacking.