The alarming disparity in maternal mortality rates between Black women and their white counterparts is a pressing issue in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Black women are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women. In my state of Georgia, we are rated #49 in Maternal healthcare! That is disgusting! BirthKeepers and doulas play a crucial role in addressing this disparity, offering culturally sensitive care and support that can significantly improve maternal health outcomes for Black women.

BirthKeepers and doulas provide continuous, personalised care throughout pregnancy, labour, and postpartum. This continuity of care fosters a trusting relationship between the mother and her caregiver, ensuring that her unique needs and concerns are addressed promptly. For Black women, who often face systemic biases and discrimination within the healthcare system, having an advocate who understands their cultural context and can speak up on their behalf is invaluable.

I am trained to recognise early signs of complications and can facilitate timely interventions. We empower women with knowledge about their bodies and the birthing process, enabling them to make informed decisions about their care. This empowerment is critical in a healthcare system where Black women’s voices are often unheard or dismissed.

Moreover, we provide emotional and psychological support, which is essential for reducing stress and anxiety during pregnancy and childbirth. Stress has been linked to adverse birth outcomes, and by providing a calming presence and reassurance, doulas can help mitigate these effects.

Community-based doula programmes that focus on serving Black communities have shown promising results in improving maternal health outcomes. These programmes provide support during pregnancy and childbirth and connect mothers to resources and support networks that promote overall well-being.

In conclusion, BirthKeepers and doulas are vital in the fight to decrease the Black maternal death rate. Their culturally competent, continuous, and compassionate care addresses the systemic and individual factors contributing to this crisis, ultimately saving lives and fostering healthier communities.