New Foundation to Impact the 200,000 Severe Obstetric Lacerations That Occur During Childbirth Each Year
BIRMINGHAM, Ala., August 22, 2023 (Newswire.com) - More than 200,000 women in the U.S. experience severe obstetric lacerations during childbirth each year, leaving many with post-traumatic stress disorder, incontinence, and physical & emotional complications that impact their families and quality of life. The SOLACE (Severe Obstetric Laceration Awareness & Community Engagement) Foundation, a new not-for-profit organization, seeks to prevent severe obstetric lacerations by empowering positive birth experiences for women, providing prenatal and postpartum support, and advocating for improved standards for maternal healthcare.
According to National Institutes of Health data, 78% of women with a severe obstetric laceration experience post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of their birth experience and its aftermath; 54% find their long-term symptoms unacceptable. Many women are unaware of the risks associated with vaginal birth, including urinary & fecal incontinence, and these risks are rarely discussed. Currently, the U.S. leads developed nations in maternal morbidity and mortality rates, making the Foundation's efforts all the more vital.
The view of Dr. Holly Richter, the former president of AUGS (American Urogynecological Society) and now a member of the board of directors at The SOLACE Foundation: "The SOLACE Foundation is committed to providing education, linking patients to providers and offering emotional support in the setting of a condition that can significantly impact quality of life."
"The SOLACE Foundation envisions a world where women's birth experiences are significantly improved through awareness and informed decision-making," said Caroline Stadler, PA-C, SOLACE's Founder & Executive Director, who experienced her own severe obstetric laceration following the birth of her first child. "A core objective is to dispel the misconception that severe obstetric lacerations are rare occurrences. Preventive measures exist, and through research-based education, we will empower women, families, and healthcare providers with comprehensive knowledge on the prevention and management of these injuries. With a determined focus on promoting positive birth experiences and enhancing maternal health, we aim to drive a meaningful change in the maternal health landscape in the U.S. to ensure better support for the mental and physical well-being of women following vaginal childbirth."
The Foundation will place a major emphasis on Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries (OASIS), a severe complication that can lead to fecal incontinence in 50% of affected women. The SOLACE Foundation aims to set an evidence-based standard of care to prevent such injuries and improve birth outcomes. Additionally, the Foundation will provide educational information to healthcare providers about the physical and emotional implications of severe obstetric lacerations, equipping them with effective preventive and management strategies.
Furthermore, The SOLACE Foundation will ensure that women who endure severe obstetric injuries have access to vital physical and mental health resources, fostering a supportive and empathetic community.
To find out more please visit https://www.solaceforwomen.org or email contact@solaceforwomen.org.
Source: The SOLACE Foundation
