Urethrovaginal Fistula — VA Disability Rating (DC 7625)
Diagnostic Code 7625 · 38 CFR §4.116
What Is It?
A urethrovaginal fistula is an abnormal opening between the urethra and the vagina, causing urinary leakage through the vaginal canal. This condition results in continuous or stress-related urinary incontinence, recurrent urinary tract infections, and significant quality of life disruption. It can develop from traumatic injury, surgical complications, difficult childbirth, or radiation damage. Veterans may acquire this condition through injuries during service or complications from military medical procedures.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Multiple urethrovaginal fistulae. |
| 60% | Requires the use of an appliance or the wearing of absorbent materials which must be changed more than four times per day. |
| 40% | Requires the wearing of absorbent materials which must be changed two to four times per day. |
| 20% | Requires the wearing of absorbent materials which must be changed less than two times per day. |
Evidence Needed
Urological examination documenting the fistula is essential. Cystourethrogram or other imaging confirming the fistula location and size provides objective evidence. Urodynamic testing showing the degree of incontinence quantifies the severity. Records of surgical repair attempts and outcomes are important. Detailed documentation of absorbent material usage — how many pads per day and how often you change them — is critical because ratings are directly tied to this metric.
C&P Exam Tips
Be specific about how many absorbent pads or garments you use per day and how often you change them. This is the key metric that determines your rating. Describe how the incontinence affects your work, social life, and daily activities. Report any skin irritation from constant moisture exposure. Mention all UTIs you have had since the fistula developed. If you have multiple fistulae, make sure the examiner documents each one.
How to File
File VA Form 21-526EZ listing urethrovaginal fistula under DC 7625. Include urological examination reports, imaging studies, and records of any repair attempts. Document daily absorbent material usage carefully, as this directly determines your rating level. Provide evidence linking the condition to a service event or military medical procedure.
Common Mistakes
Not tracking and documenting daily pad changes, which is the key metric for determining the rating level Not documenting if you have multiple fistulae, which automatically qualifies for 100 percent Not claiming secondary UTIs and skin conditions separately
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I document my pad usage for the VA?
Keep a daily log of how many absorbent pads or garments you use and how frequently you change them. The rating levels are based on changes per day: less than two changes is 20 percent, two to four changes is 40 percent, and more than four changes is 60 percent. Multiple fistulae automatically rate at 100 percent regardless of pad usage.
What if I have more than one fistula?
Multiple urethrovaginal fistulae receive an automatic 100 percent rating under DC 7625. Make sure your medical records document each individual fistula. This is the highest rating level for this condition.