Ela Clinic – Supporting a Positive Birth Experience

Adva Pollak Gan | Dr. Noa Zafran | Dr. Hedy Benyamini Reischer

Project Goal:

Providing support for pregnant women with complex mental health backgrounds, including a history of sexual or obstetric trauma, throughout pregnancy and childbirth.

Project Overview:

Ela Clinic is being established in the maternity ward of Ha’Emek Medical Center in order to offer tailored emotional and medical support for women with complex mental health backgrounds. The multidisciplinary team includes a midwife, an OB-GYN, a psychologist, and an anesthesiologist, working together to create a comprehensive, trauma-informed care approach.

The clinic will also serve to raise awareness of the impact of sexual and obstetric trauma on childbirth. Key initiatives for the coming year include:

• Team Development – Establishing interdisciplinary collaboration and specialized training, with a focus on cultural sensitivity.

• Awareness and Outreach – Hosting educational events for medical teams, community figures, and birth support professionals.

• Creating a Welcoming Space – Designing a clinic environment that feels safe and supportive.

• Securing Funding – Developing a long-term financial strategy for sustainability.

  
  

The goal is to establish a clinic that provides comprehensive, trauma-informed care, with strong community connections to identify and refer women in need. The hospital staff will be trained in trauma-informed care, transforming the delivery ward into a more supportive and sensitive space.