Access to Healthcare, Patient Comprehension and Future Plans of Women Undergoing Surgery for a Vesicovaginal Fistula in Niamey, Niger

From September 2005 to January 2006, 58 women who underwent surgery for vesicovaginal fistula at the National Hospital Fistula Center in Niamey, Niger were interviewed post-operatively using a questionnaire developed to investigate demographic, social, economic, and cultural factors that may affect formation of fistula. Also included in this questionnaire was evaluation of access to health care as well as patient understanding of counseling regarding their surgery and post-operative instructions, in particular information about future fertility and fistula development.