In deciding to become a doula, one of my main motivations for doing so came after learning how at risk both women and their infants are for death, and specifically black women and children. Black
Mothers and babies have the highest mortality rate amongst their peers, black women are 3-4x more likely to die during childbirth than their white counterparts and for various reasons including but not limited to, health care discrimination, general lack of resources and socioeconomic and geographic influences, and systemic racism.
To overstate how at risk black mothers are for death to have JUST ONE CHILD, I’ve made a short video to compare some high risk jobs to black mothers risk of death. And while there is a great deal of comic relief, there should be an understanding that the risk and reality is alarming
Doulas are a great way to decrease your risks of maternal death, as Doulas have been proven to decrease the need for medical interventions such as cesarean sections which In turn decrease the risk of complications associated with such interventions, like blood clots, cardiac arrest and infection.
Doulas based in their community are especially likely to improve health outcomes for mothers and infants by ensuring those at greatest risk for medical discrimination and mistreatment are met with the additional support they require. As fellow community members they better understand the needs of their clients and are better able to build a trusting relationship with them. Studies show that a strong doula/ client relationship rooted in trust and shared experience greatly increases a pregnant woman’s engagement in care, agency in decision-making, and overall improved health outcomes.
So while the numbers might seem scary they are very real and the risk is great amongst our community, but there are steps we can take to decrease our risks. Check out the video for some interesting facts, like and share if you learned something new today 🤍✨
Prenatal massage
Peace mama’s 🤍✨
Noel’s nest is excited to add a new doula 🤰🏽service to the list, PRENATAL MASSAGE 💆🏾♀️.
Prenatal massages are beneficial to both mom and baby and are a great way to practice self care. You can utilize prenatal massage as a way to relax and prepare your body for labor and or as a way to practice self care in your last few weeks of pregnancy when your body really craves relaxation and rest 😴
Massages can be booked as a one time experience or as a set of appointments, and are great to offer expecting moms as baby shower gifts or push presents (👀 looking at you here dads)
As always Noel’s nest still offers its general services which include, pregnancy loss counseling, breastfeeding counseling, childbirth education, for both individuals and groups, birth work and post partum services. ✨
If you have a second check out the video below for a brief overview of some of the benefits of prenatal massage and don’t forget to call or text for your free consultation 🤭✨🤍
Let’s talk about BREATH WORK 😮💨
I can not stress enough the benefits of focused and intentional breathing. This goes for any and everyone not just new and expecting moms.
As a doula I encourage and utilize breath work during pregnancy, especially during labor, and during the postpartum period. There isn’t a time
In your life as a mom where breath work won’t be beneficial.
Here are some reasons why breath work is extremely important specifically for soon to be moms
👩🏽🍼Empowerment through connection: each and every inhale and exhale invites you to connect with both your body and baby on a deeper level.
🌊 For the calm during the storm: The experience of labor can both thrilling and overwhelming. However breathing intentionally can create a calm oasis of sorts to help you navigate labor with moments of serenity.
🫁 Oxygenation: Undoubtedly your baby thrives on the oxygen you provide. Through intentional breath work you help ensure your baby receives part of the nourishment and support the need to develop and grow
💪🏽 Strength: Childbirth requires a great deal of strength and endurance, breath work will help you when the challenge presents itself.
😌Relaxation: Anxiety and Fear are common feelings when approaching labor, but will benefit mom or baby during the process. Good breath work will help you release tension and promote a more positive and relaxed environment for yourself and baby.
Remember to just breathe 🧘🏾♀️ 😮💨✨
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