Body system: Gynecological ConditionsRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.116
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 pads, liners, or other absorbent products because of ongoing discharge, bleeding, or leakage from vulvar or vaginal conditions. The discharge or symptoms are significant enough that you must change these absorbent materials 2-4 times throughout each day to stay comfortable and hygienic.
- 20% — You need to wear pads, panty liners, or other absorbent products to manage discharge, bleeding, or other fluid from vulvar or vaginal conditions, but you only need to change them once or twice per day. The discharge or symptoms are regular enough that you can't go without protection, but they're not so severe that you need frequent changes throughout the day.