PIP: This article focuses on the plight of women who are suffering from incontinence due to obstetrical fistula and other causes, and discusses the efforts of Dr. Hamlin and other individuals in helping these women. Obstetrical fistula is common in sub-Saharan Africa and has also been reported on the Indian subcontinent in Bangladesh, India, Nepal and Pakistan. The factors affecting this problem are complex. In some developing countries, childbearing is seen as a natural part of life wherein women usually give birth unaided, even when they have difficulties. Other factors include early pregnancy, continuous childbearing and breast-feeding, malnutrition, female genital mutilation, and inaccessibility of rural health services. Oftentimes, women with this condition have to suffer for many years before undergoing surgery. However, prevention is better than cure, prevention involves a better education and care for women during pregnancy and labor, with more trained midwives and traditional birth attendants who know when to call for medical help.