KENISHA WILSON
In the U.S. where the maternal mortality rate is the highest of any developed country, interest in doula care is on the rise. A doula (pronounced DOO-lah) is a trained expert who gives emotional, physical, and informational support to mothers before a baby is born, during labor and delivery, and after the birth (postpartum).
Unlike doctors or midwives, doulas focus on a mother’s well-being by offering personalized care and comfort. By walking with families thru the birthing process — and offering postpartum help — doulas make the transition to parenthood safer, smoother and more affirming. Indeed, according to the National Health Law Program, doulas improve health outcomes and reduce racial disparities, including Black maternal mortality rates.
Some doulas focus on specific areas, such as postpartum care, sibling support for older sisters and brothers, and bereavement support after a miscarriage, stillbirth, or abortion. Other doulas, like Kenisha Wilson, a community health worker (CHW) and certified doula at AHN, cover the full spectrum of pregnancy.
“Doulas tailor care to the specific pregnant person and family,” Kenisha explains. “Each person’s birth preferences are as unique as the individual. As doulas, what we hold true for everyone is an emphasis on the birthing person’s well-being.”
Fundamentally, birth preferences (often called a birth plan) include how a woman envisions labor and delivery taking place. “Does the mother want low light, essential oils, and affirmation while she’s laboring?” Kenisha explains. “Does she want to labor in a warm shower with music playing? When is the best time to get an epidural? Will gentle massage help her relax? Does she want me to coach her partner or attend to an older sibling who’s present? In the delivery room, I serve as the mom’s environment control.”
If the idea of having someone other than family in the delivery room doesn’t appeal to you, doulas offer other services. “For example, during pregnancy, doulas can help women understand their bodies, including hormone changes,” says Kenisha. “They can suggest ideas for dealing with morning sickness and fatigue.
“After delivery, doulas can help with breast feeding and newborn care, offer tips for sibling adjustment, schedule appointments, and provide light in-home housekeeping and meals that allow a new mom to rest,” she adds.
Doula care is covered by some health insurance, including Medicaid in Pennsylvania. In Kenisha’s case, doula care is offered by AHN as part of its pregnancy and newborn services. Other hospitals, including UPMC, offer similar resources. “Independent doulas are available as well, and some offer payment on a sliding scale based on income,” Kenisha notes. Scholarships and grants may also cover costs.
Kenisha encourages pregnant women — especially women who live in underserved communities — to talk to a doula and learn more about the process. “Women can never have too many people advocating for their health and well-being,” she says, “especially during such a life-changing event.”
For more information about finding a doula, talk with your healthcare provider or visit mastersofmaternity.com. State requirements for doula training/certification can be found on the Doula Law Project website.
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