Photo courtesy of Pacific Birth Collective

The Community Doula Project is designed to provide no-cost birth or postpartum care to families. Pregnant women can apply online on the Pacific Birth Collective website. Once granted care, they select from a cohort of doulas in the program.  https://www.pacificbirthcollective.org/communitydoula

A birth doula provides emotional, physical, and educational support during labor and birth. They offer reassurance, comfort measures, and advocacy as needed. Their purpose is to help women have a safe, positive, and empowering birth experience. 

A postpartum doula is a professional who offers support to women and families in the weeks following birth. They assist with household duties, childcare, food preparation, breastfeeding support, infant care, and emotional support.

Studies have shown the benefits of birth doulas. Research shows that doula-supported women are less likely to have a cesarean section, less likely to use pain medication, and less likely to rate their experience negatively. Overall, those who have continuous support were more likely to have spontaneous vaginal births and less likely to have interventions or negative feelings about childbirth.

Postpartum doulas can play an integral role in supporting families with new babies and can reduce rates of postpartum depression. The postpartum period can be a difficult time for some new moms, and postpartum care is essential in helping mothers recover, bond with their babies, and help new families find a groove in the new reality.

Apply today to find the support you deserve.