Pregnant? Consider a doula!
What is a doula?
Community-based doulas are trained to give emotional, physical, and helpful advice to pregnant individuals before and after they have their babies. These doulas understand different cultures and beliefs, so they can give the best care to their clients. They work together with doctors, nurses, and midwives to help families during pregnancy, birth, and after the baby is born. Simply put, a doula is there to provide guidance and support to a pregnant woman and her family.
Why should you consider a doula?
Doulas teach families about childbirth, help them understand how to use the healthcare system, speak up for them when needed, and find other helpful resources in the community.
What can a doula provide?
A doula can provide Physical, emotional, and informational support. They also can offer support to partners and family members and be an advocate for mom and baby. After delivery, a doula will also support mom and baby. A doula will help setup appointments, educate, and connect to resources.
How do I find a doula?
Many people think doulas are a luxury service, but they are often covered by insurance for Virginians! Medicaid in Virginia covers community doula services for pregnant, enrolled individuals. For more information about Virginia’s Community Doula Program, visit Community Doula Program (virginia.gov). Call the number on the back of your insurance card to ask question or learn more about this. Some private insurances will also cover birthing doulas. Please check with your individual insurance plan for coverage. Doulas can also be paid privately, out-of-pocket. Fees may vary. To find a State-certified doula, visit https://www.vacertboard.org/
What’s happening in RAHD with doulas?
·The Rappahannock Area Health District is currently working to increase the number of certified and community doulas in our area to better meet the demand.
o During the 2022 Community Health Assessment (CHA), RAHD identified racial disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes in our area.
o We additionally identified an area for improvement in our area when it comes to doulas. Though doulas are considered an effective way to improve birth outcomes and community doula services are covered by Medicaid in Virginia, there were very few certified doulas actually available locally.
o RAHD began a collaboration known as the Black Maternal and Infant Health Steering Committee information.
The steering committee is comprised of staff from RAHD, Mary Washington Healthcare, Healthy Families, Virginia Department of Social Services, Virginia Department of Health, Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services, and a private doula. We seek to find creative methods to lower the disparities affecting women of color through education and awareness.
Resources
Black Maternal and Infant Health Pregnancy Roadmap Brochure
Germanna Community College Doula Program
VDH Doula State Certification Resources ·
Virginia Medicaid Community Doula Program ·
Provider Toolkit
Doula Services Social Media Shareable