
As the world marks this year’s International Day to End Obstetric Fistula, BAFROW Management and staff wish to remind all Gambians of the dangers of obstetric fistula and the importance of good health seeking behaviour to prevent the injury.
Obstetric fistula is a preventable injury which occurs when a hole develops between the birth canal and the bladder or rectum due to prolonged obstructed labour without immediate medical attention.
This is why it is critical for all pregnant women and girls to attend their antenatal appointments regularly and ensure they are seen to by skilled birth attendants during delivery. Limited access to sexual and reproductive health information and services for young people perpetuates teenage pregnancy, another driver for obstetric fistula. Families should re-evaluate and discuss the repercussions of social and cultural practices that contribute to obstetric fistula, including child marriage and female genital cutting.
We continue to support national efforts in ending this injury by providing all our age-appropriate clients essential sexual and reproductive health information and quality services to prevent and reduce the incidence to obstetric fistula in The Gambia.
If you have obstetric fistula or know of any one with the injury, contact our Obstetric Fistula Treatment and Care Centre for information and/ or services on: +220 373 74 58 or +220 340 07 83, or email us at info@bafrow.gm
Your well-being is our priority.
About us

We are a national non-governmental and non-profit organization based in The Gambia. Our Social and Economic Empowerment programme aims to complement the government’s development efforts and contributes to the attainment of related sustainable development goals (SDGs). Our focus is on three major interrelated areas: health, economic and social empowerment, and environmental issues.
We operate clinics under our Health component including BAFROW Medical Centre and the Well Woman Clinics. We provide the highest standards in medical service delivery as well as lifesaving information and knowledge on health matters.
Our Economic Empowerment component strengthens the capacity of girls and women in various life skills for economic sustenance, improved nutrition and health-seeking behaviour.
Health care delivery

Our medical services contribute to the reduction of illnesses and deaths in The Gambia through the provision of integrated health preventive and clinical care, maternal and child health care, and nutritional orientation to all.
Our work therefore responds to both the national health policy goals and the United Nation’s health related Sustainable Development Goals.
Our projects: a glance