Body system: Gynecological ConditionsRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.116DBQ: DBQ GYN Gynecological
A urethrovaginal fistula is an abnormal connection between the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder) and the vagina, causing urine to leak into the vaginal area. The VA rates this condition based on how severe the leakage is and what you need to manage it daily - from needing minimal absorbent materials (20%) to having multiple fistulas (100%). The ratings reflect how much this condition impacts your daily life and activities.
Rating levels
- 100% — You have two or more abnormal openings (fistulae) between your urethra (the tube that carries urine from your bladder) and your vagina. This condition causes urine to leak uncontrollably into the vagina instead of flowing normally through the urethral opening, resulting in constant urinary incontinence and significant impact on daily activities.
- 60% — You need to use a medical device or wear absorbent pads/materials (like incontinence pads) because of urine leaking from your bladder into your vagina through an abnormal opening (fistula). The leaking is severe enough that you must change these absorbent materials more than four times each day.
- 40% — You need to wear absorbent materials (such as pads) because urine leaks through the fistula, and you must change them two to four times per day.
- 20% — You need to wear absorbent materials (such as pads) because urine leaks through the fistula, and you change them less than two times per day.