Vaginal Fistula

DC 7624Gynecological/Breast38 CFR 4.116, DC 7624

An abnormal connection (opening) between the vagina and another organ such as the bladder (vesicovaginal fistula) or rectum (rectovaginal fistula), causing leakage of urine or stool through the vagina. The VA rates vaginal fistulas based on severity.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 7624

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.116, DC 7624. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have a vaginal fistula with continuous involuntary leakage of urine or stool, with frequent pad changes or use of an appliance.

What the VA looks for

Severe or large fistula documented
Continuous leakage requiring appliance or more than 4 pad changes per day
Unable to maintain hygiene without constant management
Severe impact on all activities of daily living
Deemed surgically unrepairable or failed multiple repairs

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not tracking and documenting the exact number of pad changes per day. The rating levels are specifically based on how many absorbent materials you use daily.
⚠Failing to connect the fistula to in-service surgical complications, childbirth injuries during service, pelvic trauma, or radiation treatment for a service-connected cancer.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions such as chronic urinary tract infections, skin breakdown, depression, and social isolation caused by the fistula.
⚠Accepting a lower rating after surgical repair without documenting residual symptoms. Even after repair, many veterans have ongoing leakage, urgency, or pain.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Gynecological Conditions and Disorders of the Breast

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7624

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have a vaginal fistula with continuous involuntary leakage of urine or stool, with frequent pad changes or use of an appliance.

What the VA looks for

Severe or large fistula documented
Continuous leakage requiring appliance or more than 4 pad changes per day
Unable to maintain hygiene without constant management
Severe impact on all activities of daily living
Deemed surgically unrepairable or failed multiple repairs

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not tracking and documenting the exact number of pad changes per day. The rating levels are specifically based on how many absorbent materials you use daily.

⚠Failing to connect the fistula to in-service surgical complications, childbirth injuries during service, pelvic trauma, or radiation treatment for a service-connected cancer.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions such as chronic urinary tract infections, skin breakdown, depression, and social isolation caused by the fistula.

⚠Accepting a lower rating after surgical repair without documenting residual symptoms. Even after repair, many veterans have ongoing leakage, urgency, or pain.