Doula Facts
Doulas provide emotional, physical, and informational support before, during, and after birth. They do not replace medical care but enhance the birthing experience with comfort techniques, advocacy, and guidance. Studies show that doula support can lead to shorter labors, fewer interventions, and improved birth satisfaction. Doulas also assist with C-sections, postpartum recovery, and even adoption transitions, ensuring every family feels supported and empowered. Birth support isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity!
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What is a doula?
A doula is a trained professional who provides emotional, physical, and informational support before, during, and after birth to ensure a more empowering experience.
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What’s the difference between a doula and a midwife?
A midwife provides medical care, while a doula offers non-medical support, advocacy, and comfort measures throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
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Who can benefit from your services?
Anyone preparing for birth, postpartum recovery, or adoption can benefit from our support. We welcome all families, including first-time parents, experienced parents, and those seeking alternative pregnancy care.​
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What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve the Memphis area and surrounding communities. Virtual support is also available.
B.A.B.E. Community
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The Emotional Toll of Medical Racism: How Black and Brown Parents Can Advocate for Themselves in the Healthcare System
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Statistics and Real-World Disparities:
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Black women in the U.S. are 3-4 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women.
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Latina women and Indigenous mothers face higher rates of medical neglect during pregnancy.
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Systemic Barriers:
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Dismissal of pain complaints (e.g., Serena Williams’ postpartum complications).
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Lack of culturally competent providers.
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Self-Advocacy Tips:
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Asking direct questions, documenting symptoms, bringing a doula or trusted person.
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Knowing patient rights and legal protections.
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Cultural Trauma and Pregnancy: Breaking Generational Curses in Black and Brown Communities
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Historical Examples of Reproductive Trauma:
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Forced sterilization of Puerto Rican women and Indigenous communities.
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J. Marion Sims’ experiments on enslaved Black women.
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How Trauma Manifests Today:
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Anxiety about pregnancy and birth.
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Distrust of doctors leading to delayed prenatal care.
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Healing Strategies:
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Trauma-informed therapy, storytelling, spiritual practices.
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"Strong Black Woman" Syndrome and Maternal Mental Health: It’s Okay to Need Help
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The Myth of Strength at All Costs:
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The expectation that Black mothers should endure hardships silently.
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Consequences of Suppressing Emotional Needs:
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Higher rates of untreated postpartum depression.
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How to Shift the Narrative:
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Seeking therapy, community support, normalizing asking for help.
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