and perpetually stigmatized by her condition. (8) Because obstetric fistulas are not themselves fatal, millions of women live with this horrific condition and have been overlooked by the international medical community. At present, humanitarian aid and nongovernmental programs treat fistula cases on a small scale and are not equipped to systematically prevent, treat, and eradicate obstetric fistula. (9) Obstetric fistula can be prevented when women and their families are educated about the birthing process and are provided timely access to emergency obstetric care. Basic interventions to identify and repair obstetric fistula have achieved meaningful and cost-effective results. The impact of an obstetric fistula-repair surgery is immediate and women can be reintegrated into society. However, access to prevention, effective midwifery services, and OB–GYN care can significantly decrease childbirth-related injuries. 3. International OB/GYN and Urogynecology Promotion Program (a) Purpose The purpose of assistance under this section is to train and retain obstetrician-gynecologists (OB–GYNs) and sub-specialists in urogynecology and to help improve the quality of care to meet the health care needs of women in least developed countries. (b) Authorization (1) In general To carry out the purpose of subsection (a), the President, acting through the Director of the John E. Fogarty International Center for Advanced Study in the Health Sciences, is authorized to provide assistance for least developed countries to support the activities described in subsection (c). (2) Reference Assistance authorized under this section may be referred to as the International OB/GYN and Urogynecology Promotion Program . (c) Activities supported Activities that may be supported by assistance under subsection (b) include the following: (1) Fellowship and residency programs Establishment of fellowship and residency programs to be carried out in coordination with institutions of higher education (as such term is defined in section 101 of the Higher