Final answer:
A vesicovaginal fistula is the pathological connection between the bladder and vagina, typically resulting from childbirth complications. This condition leads to urinary incontinence and is socially and physically debilitating for women, with treatment access and success rates varying based on the fistula's severity and healthcare availability.
Step-by-step explanation:
The name given to a fistula that forms between the bladder and the vagina is called a vesicovaginal fistula. This condition is often a consequence of prolonged or obstructed labor, particularly in settings with limited medical assistance. Vesicovaginal fistulas cause chronic urinary incontinence, leading to significant physical discomfort and social stigma for the affected women. Surgical remedy is the primary treatment, yet access to and success of this treatment can be influenced by the severity of the fistula and the availability of medical resources.
Cultural anthropologist Allison Heller's study on the impact of fistula among women in Niger sheds light on the complex interplay of gender, health, and social dynamics. It emphasizes the roles that mothers play in providing support and advocacy for their daughters suffering from fistulas, as well as the intricate challenges women face in patriarchal societies when dealing with such reproductive health issues.