As we wrap up another incredible year, we at InspireHer: A Global Women’s Health Initiative want to take a moment to reflect on all we’ve achieved together. With the support of our generous donors and community members, we’ve made significant strides in empowering women’s health worldwide. From expanding maternal care in underserved areas to creating impactful educational resources, here are some of the life-changing outcomes made possible by your contributions in 2024.

1. Better Birth Project: Training Birth Workers for Safer Maternal Care

This year, the Better Birth Project continued its mission to empower birth workers with essential knowledge and training. Thanks to your donations, we provided specialized training to doulas and midwives in underserved communities, equipping them with a deep understanding of pelvic health and postpartum care.

The Impact: These trained birth workers now have the skills to identify and address maternal health issues like incontinence, pelvic pain, and postpartum depression. By providing culturally sensitive, community-based care, they’re helping to reduce maternal health complications for mothers in vulnerable communities.

2. Expanding Postpartum Support Services

With your support, GWHI expanded postpartum care services in areas with limited maternal healthcare access. This has enabled us to deliver much-needed follow-up care for mothers after childbirth—care that is often critical to long-term health.

The Impact: In high-risk populations, mothers now have access to pelvic floor therapy, musculoskeletal support, and mental health screenings, which are essential in preventing complications. This postpartum support not only aids recovery but also improves the overall health and quality of life for mothers in these communities.

3. Educating Women and Families Through Resource Development

This year, we dedicated resources to developing and distributing educational materials on pelvic and reproductive health, thanks to your contributions. These materials reached healthcare providers, birth workers, and directly impacted mothers, promoting essential health literacy.

The Impact: With these resources, mothers and families can now recognize symptoms early, understand their postpartum care needs, and seek medical assistance when needed. This knowledge helps prevent long-term health issues and fosters confidence in navigating postpartum recovery.

Looking Forward to 2025: Building on Our Impact

These achievements are just the beginning. In 2025, we’re committed to expanding these initiatives and reaching even more communities in need.

We’re excited to announce an upcoming initiative in 2025 that will bring specialized pelvic health education to Ethiopia. This project aims to increase the capacity of healthcare providers in the Tigray region of Ethiopia, allowing them to address the unique needs of women experiencing pelvic organ prolapse.

About the Program

With the assistance of the Washington University Women’s Health Residency Program faculty and current resident Taylor Sheffield, we are developing a train-the-trainer program that will equip physicians, physical therapists, and midwives in Northern Ethiopia with essential skills in pelvic health. Those who complete the course will be able to pass on their training to additional healthcare centers, creating a sustainable and locally-driven approach to women’s health in this region.

The Impact: By empowering local providers with this knowledge, we’re not only improving women’s immediate access to care but also establishing a self-sustaining network of informed healthcare professionals in the region.

How You Can Help: Your support will help us cover travel, lodging, and materials needed to successfully deliver this program. Educational resources such as videos will be prepared in advance, ensuring that training is comprehensive and effective.

Join Us in Our Mission to Empower Women’s Health

Your support fuels this work. Whether it’s a one-time gift or ongoing support, every donation moves us closer to a world where every woman has access to the care she deserves.

Donate Today to Make a Difference: www.gwhi.org/donate

Thank You for Being Part of the GWHI Community

As we reflect on this year’s impact, we’re deeply grateful for our community of donors, volunteers, and advocates. Together, we’re transforming women’s health and building healthier futures for women and families everywhere. Here’s to an even brighter, healthier 2025!