Doulas Driving Positive Outcomes

The Magnolia Project utilizes a life-course approach to impact poor birth outcomes and disparities that addresses health and development over the mothers'/families' life course, not just during pregnancy. Most importantly, the project broadens the focus of maternal and child health to include social equity.

The Magnolia Project partnered with BEAM and the Doula Network to train and certify 13 Doulas (7 credentialed). The doulas were required to provide a Level 2 Background screening, Liability Insurance, HIPAA and CPR/First Aid Training.

Objective: To utilize doulas to provide prenatal, delivery and postpartum support to pregnant African American women recipients of the Magnolia project.

Method: The Doulas will act as a social support and liaison to black women during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum advocate on the moms behalf by assisting with creating a birth plan

Expected Outcome: The effect of doula services on maternal health and birth outcomes is validated in many studies. Studies indicate that increased access to doula care can improve a range of health outcomes for mothers and babies, lower healthcare costs, reduce c-sections, decrease maternal anxiety and depression, and help improve communication between pregnant women and their health care providers.