Hamlin Fistula New Zealand: Restoring Dignity, Saving Lives

Founded in Ethiopia by pioneering Kiwi and Australian surgeons, Drs Reg and Catherine Hamlin, our work reflects a lifetime quest to provide treatment to the most marginalised women: those who have suffered an obstetric fistula.

Obstetric fistula is a common and devastating childbirth injury that occurs as a result of prolonged, obstructed labour without access to timely medical care. It leaves survivors with uncontrollable incontinence, and in most cases the loss of their baby as well. The physical and psychological consequences are debilitating, traumatic and heart-breaking.

Hamlin provides surgical intervention and rehabilitation, along with the training and placement of midwives across rural Ethiopia to improve maternity care access.

Over the past 65 years, Hamlin has treated over 70,000 women. Despite this progress, an estimated 31,000 women still suffer from untreated birth injuries with around 1,000 new cases each year. 

The Hamlin network includes the Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital, five regional Fistula hospitals, the Desta Mender rehabilitation center, the Hamlin College of Midwives and over 90 Hamlin-supported rural midwifery clinics across Ethiopia. 

Established in 2005 at the request of Dr Catherine, the Hamlin Charitable Fistula Hospitals Trust (known as Hamlin Fistula New Zealand) is a Kiwi charity committed to raising funds and awareness.

Please join us in making a difference in the lives of Ethiopian women by supporting Hamlin's vital work.

“Every mother is a family’s richest possession” - Dr Reg Hamlin OBE