'We were very grateful when experienced people came into our village and gave us training about pregnancy and birth. Most women are giving birth in their homes and often we don’t have the knowledge or skills to know what to expect or what to do when things don’t go as planned. We were shown practical skills and given information to help both the woman and the newborn. Many of us know that sooner or later we will need these valuable skills for the women in our families and villages.’
I went to the training on how to help when a woman is giving birth with my sister. We learned many things about preparing for the birth, about the importance of washing hands and having everything very clean, how to cut the umbilical cord and about breast feeding. It was very interesting and the trainer showed us clearly what to do.’
‘I have three children of my own. When I was went to the training on birth I thought I knew many things but I soon realized there was still a lot to learn. It was very informative and helpful. I feel more confident and equipped to help now.’
‘It was wonderful to receive this knowledge. I want to be able to help effectively. I have known both women and babies that have died during childbirth. I want to know the best way to help especially if there are problems’.
In many regions of the Middle East, only 16% of the women are attended by trained personnel during pregnancy. Maternal Mortality Ratio is 1600 per 100,000 births. Every fourth child dies before it reaches the age of 5 years. Our project is designed to address the needs of illiterate women suffering from poor health facilities and knowledge specifically related to childbirth. We help these women out of the cycle of poverty and powerlessness which places them at the bottom of the world when it comes to maternal and infant mortality. Survey’s show maternal mortality in the areas we are working has been reduced by 75% and infant mortality (under 1 year) reduced by 66%.
$140 provides prenatal care training for one woman.
