“handi’Cap to Maternity”: Bridging the Gap in Pregnancy Care for Women with Disabilities
A new program is revolutionizing pregnancy care for women with disabilities, addressing a historical lack of preparedness and adaptation within the medical system. For years,pregnant patients with disabilities faced meaningful hurdles,ofen receiving care that wasn’t tailored to their specific needs. Dr. Aline Delgranche highlights that prior to initiatives like “Handi’Cap to Maternity,” care was provided on an “as you coudl” basis, with little anticipation of the unique challenges these patients would encounter .
Common difficulties included:
inaccessible Facilities: Examination rooms were often unsuitable, such as lacking the ability to easily transfer a patient using a wheelchair onto an examination table .
Lack of Postpartum Planning: Women were sometimes discharged after cesarean sections without adequate preparation or support for managing newborn care – including bathing and diaper changes – with their disability .
Fragmented Care: A lack of coordinated care between specialists meant crucial needs weren’t always addressed.
How “Handi’Cap to Maternity” Works:
The program prioritizes a proactive, anticipatory approach. Key features include:
Preconception Planning (Ideal): Ideally, patients engage with the program before becoming pregnant to tailor their care journey based on their disability .
Multidisciplinary team: Care is provided by a team including gynecologists/midwives and physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists .
“White Visits”: Simulations of the birthing process are conducted, allowing patients to familiarize themselves with the hospital surroundings and discuss necesary accommodations. Photos are taken and documented for the delivery team .
* occupational Therapy Integration: Occupational therapists work with patients throughout pregnancy and postpartum to anticipate needs and facilitate a smooth transition home .
The program’s success hinges on anticipation and careful scenario planning, ensuring a more supportive and empowering pregnancy experience for women with disabilities.
Keywords: Pregnancy, disability, maternal health, healthcare access, “Handi’cap to Maternity,” prenatal care, postpartum care, accessibility, occupational therapy, childbirth, women’s health.
