Were you aware that fistula is a worrisome disorder that ails many globally? But its victims are afraid of open acceptance that they suffer from it due to the stigma surrounding it.
Furthermore, many fallacies discourage people suffering from it from rushing for medical care and support. Because this ailment is causing many of its victims to remain silent, it is high time that they are made conscious of the myths surrounding fistula that are being perpetuated so that they can obtain the support, medically and otherwise, to be treated accordingly [1].
To begin with, awareness should be spread about fistula, what causes it, what its symptoms are, and, importantly, myths around it should be dispelled to make its victims feel bold enough to talk and discuss it with willing and sympathetic ears.
What exactly is fistula?
Fistula is an irregular opening in the skin close to the anus that connects organs that usually do not associate, leading to an inflammation, injury, or infection [2].
On the other hand, anal fistulas are small abnormal connections between the skin near the opening of the base of the anus and the end of the bowel. This condition is more painful, causing severe discomfiture.
Though it prevails commonly, individuals are wary of discussing it, causing many of its victims to suffer silently owing to the shame associated with it.
Major myths surrounding fistula
Fistula is infectious
Fistula is not infectious, and no one individual can spread it to another. It is a disorder in individuals suffering from specific health problems; an infectious agent cannot cause it.
Poor hygiene causes fistula
Although proper private hygiene is essential for good health, poor hygiene is not the primary cause of fistula. Various factors, such as an inflammatory bowel disorder, difficulties during childbirth, surgical malfunctions, or trauma, can cause fistula.
Fistula is a spell or punishment
Notwithstanding the times we live in, many illiterate people assume fistula to be a punishment or spell. Any individual can, in fact, be affected by fistula, irrespective of social status, gender, or age. It is, therefore, necessary to educate people close to the victims about it so that they are adequately cared for [3].
Fistula cannot be cured
It is possible to treat fistulas by diagnosing them early and taking proper measures. Many advanced remedial treatments and surgical interventions can keep fistulas under control and cure them [4].
Raising awareness to expose the stigma
Education can go a long way toward contradicting the stigma associated with fistula. It should begin with raising awareness among patients, healthcare providers, and communities about what causes fistula, symptoms to watch out for, and existing treatment options.
Awareness can be raised by organizing workshops, training sessions, campaigns, and social media. Unveiling the challenges and eradicating the shame that surrounds fistula can encourage people to communicate openly without any shame or guilt. This will encourage fistula patients and their family members to share their experiences with their communities, leading to normalizing discussions about this illness.
Conclusion
We at Laser Piles strive to educate people about fistula by exposing myths associated with it. We must eliminate the stigma associated with this condition.
We are also dedicated to supporting those affected by fistula by providing personal and empathetic care. Laser Piles deems it its duty to encourage compassion, understanding, and open communication so that we can create a more caring atmosphere and improve the conditions for those suffering from fistula, enabling them to be healthier and happier.
To learn more about the treatment for fistula, contact us at Laser Piles.
References
- Changole J, Thorsen VC, Kafulafula U. “I am a person but I am not a person”: experiences of women living with obstetric fistula in the central region of Malawi. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2017 Dec 21;17(1):433. doi: 10.1186/s12884-017-1604-1. PMID: 29268711; PMCID: PMC5740704. – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5740704/.
- National Association for Continence.(NAC) – https://nafc.org/fistula/” target=”_top” rel=”noopener noreferrer.
- Katie Arvia is a digital content specialist at the AOA. – https://thedo.osteopathic.org/2024/05/breaking-the-silence-honoring-the-legacy-and-struggle-of-obstetric-fistula-survivors/.
- Katie Arvia is a digital content specialist at the AOA. – https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/analysis-the-devastating-stigma-of-fistula-and-the-surgery-that-can-help.
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