'I reduced my running because of urine leaks' – Commonwealth finalist Korir

What the report says

Kenyan middle-distance runner Naomi Korir, 28, has described how a congenital fistula affected her early life and forced her to cut back on running because of persistent urine leakage. BBC Africa reported that Korir was born with a genitourinary tract fistula, a condition that can cause uncontrolled leakage of urine or faeces, and that it shaped both her schooling and athletic development.

According to the report, Korir initially focused on shorter events to manage the condition while she continued to play multiple sports. She later underwent three surgeries; the first two did not fully resolve the problem, but a third operation in 2013 at Gynocare Hospital in Eldoret finally brought relief. The hospital also helped her continue her education through its Young Fistula Programme, and staff there said many women with the condition face stigma and isolation.

The story places Korir’s progress in the wider context of fistula care in sub-Saharan Africa, where access to quality obstetric and surgical treatment can still be limited. The BBC noted that the condition is often preventable or treatable elsewhere, but remains a serious issue for women with poor access to medical care.

Korir’s career later gathered pace: she began competing professionally in 2019, won silver in a mixed relay at the 2022 World Relays in Poland, took gold with Kenya’s 4x400m relay team at the African Championships in Mauritius, and finished fifth in the mile final at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. She said her experience is meant to encourage other women to rebuild their lives after fistula.