Doulas Become Viable Service For Moms-to-Be Wanting Holistic Care During Pregnancy

Research has shown doulas can help Medicaid-covered women have healthier births.

The growing popularity of doulas has made women of all tax brackets get the holistic care they need during pregnancy.

As more health insurance plans begins to cover doula care, more expecting women have chosen that option. Doulas, trained birthing professionals who offer emotional, physical, and wellness support for pregnant women, have now become a mainstream service.

Beyond doctors and nurses, doulas often work as advocates for mothers in the hospital room. Although non-clinical aides, they serve as an extra means of support and guidance for moms throughout each trimester. They frequently provide a level of care that makes clients become family, ensuring pregnant mothers feel safe.

The check-ups with doulas do more than ensure the baby’s health. They ensure the pregnancy is running as smoothly as possible for mothers. The inclusion has become especially critical for Black mothers who face disproportionate maternal mortality rates.

According to the Black Maternal Health Caucus, Black women are more than three times more likely to die from childbirth complications than their white counterparts. However, a doula’s presence can add that vital care and attention Black mothers need to thrive post-pregnancy.

“Doulas can benefit everybody,” explained Sierra Hill, an employee at the Minnesota Health Department, to the Associated Press. “Especially communities facing inequities.”

A brief on Doulas in Medicaid confirmed that “doula-assisted mothers were four times less likely to have a baby with low birthweight, two times less likely to experience a birth complication for the mother or baby, and significantly more likely to initiate breastfeeding.”

Many hospitals and insurance companies have supported this trend of doulas in the maternal health process, with more working in tandem with medical professionals. Doulas are a growing way for pregnant women to feel championed.