- 9 -
accessHealthNews.net
April 2025
Volume 11 | Issue No. 95
For Black birthing families, care that
embraces cultural sensitivity is not a
luxury—it is an urgent necessity. As
maternal health disparities remain at the
forefront of public health discussions,
doulas continue to prove their critical role
in reshaping outcomes.
These professionals provide more than
emotional support; they become
advocates, educators, and bridges
between families and health care systems
that have historically overlooked their
voices.
Cultural responsiveness in doula care is
reflected in simple yet impactful practices
that resonate with the diverse needs of
birthing families. This might include doulas
being familiar with specific postpartum
recovery traditions, such as preparing
nourishing soups or herbal remedies that
align with cultural practices. It could mean
respecting and incorporating birthing
rituals, like affirmations, prayers, or songs,
into the labor process.
For Black birthing families, this often
involves doulas acknowledging the
historical mistrust in medical systems and
acting as trusted advocates to ensure their
clients' voices are heard.
Another important aspect of cultural
responsiveness is language accessibility.
Families who speak languages other than
English benefit immensely when doulas are
fluent in their native language or work with
interpreters, helping to navigate complex
medical settings. Even subtle actions,
like addressing clients by their preferred
pronouns or using inclusive language,
contribute to creating a supportive and
empowering birthing experience.
"Think of us like your maternal guidance
counselor," says Shariah Edwards, a
certified full-spectrum doula for Altruism,
Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. "I can't give
you medical advice, but I can give you
evidence-based information so that you
can make the best decision for you."
"Our doula gave us the tools to advocate for
ourselves and ensured we felt seen in a space that
often erases us."
READ MORE
- a St. Louis mother
