Nigeria has the highest prevalence of Vesico-Vaginal Fistula (VVF) in the world; with between 400,000 and 800,000women living with the problem and about 20,000 new cases occurring annually, 90% of the cases go untreated.

Vesico-vaginal fistula is a direct communication between the bladder and vagina resulting in leakage of urine into the vagina. This is a major gynecological problem in the country. It also occurs when the blood supply to the tissues of the vagina and bladder is restricted during prolonged obstructed labour, the tissues die between these organs, forming holes through which urine can pass uncontrollably.

In most societies of third world, women are often seen as a vulnerable gender group, however, the attendant devastating and humiliating effects of all health for example VVF further makes them more vulnerable in these societies, thus exposing their emotional instability. These women often see themselves as being different from other women in several areas, in spite of the fact that their sexual freedom has already been curtailed, they find it difficult to enjoy their sexuality, other infectious diseases may also arise, and they age more easily and quickly than their contemporaries who have not had their womanhood curtailed.

This disrepairable and demoralizing condition thus destroys the psychological well being of the victims, when someone loses confidence in enjoying a quality life; she often lives a miserable life throughout her life. This condition is typical of a Nigerian who is a victim of VVF

In most Nigerian communities, affected women are ostracized from their local community, divorced, abandoned and remain childless, thereby infringing on their dignity.

How can we best curb this issue to ensure a better living for citizens?

These will serve the bases of our discussion on this edition of village square.