Tori Bowie, a 32-year-old Olympian, tragically passed away during childbirth in early May. The most horrifying aspect, she was alone, suffering from preeclampsia, and succumbed to it during early labor in her home. As doulas, we know the US has a horrifyingly high maternal morbidity and mortality rate for a developed nation. We also know […]
International Doula Institute Celebrates Black Maternal Health Week
A week dedicated to raising awareness, promoting equity, and improving outcomes for black mothers This week, the International Doula Institute (IDI) joins the global community in celebrating Black Maternal Health Week (BMHW). This annual event, observed from April 11-17, aims to raise awareness about the disparities in maternal health outcomes for black mothers and advocate […]
Doula Support – 6 Quick Tips For Birth Support
As a doula, you are a highly trained professional. You trained to learn all about doula support. This article might seem basic, but we can all use quick reminders for how to best support our clients. As you know. there are several ways you can support families during childbirth. When offering doula support, you also […]
A Historic Victory for Doulas and Birthing People in New York State: Medicaid to Cover Doula Support
Today marks an unprecedented triumph for doulas and birthing people across New York State. A new bill has been passed, ensuring that Medicaid patients receive free doula support. This groundbreaking legislation will cover doulas at the highest reimbursement rate in the United States, a staggering $1930 per client. Doulas have worked tirelessly to achieve fair […]
New study on community based approaches to breastfeeding and safe sleep.
A wonderful study was just published in BMC Health today. This is incredibly important for doulas and breastfeeding counselors. Menon, M., Huber, R., West, D.D. et al. Community-based approaches to infant safe sleep and breastfeeding promotion: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 23, 437 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-023-15227-4 The article “Community-based approaches to infant safe sleep and […]
Doulas on Social Media – Is It a Must?
Social media has been popular for well over a decade now. With more platforms, engagement, and users than ever before, are doulas on social media a must? To be a successful doula, do you need to be on social media? The answer will definitely vary depending on who you ask, where you ask, and what […]