“This work that we’re doing is bigger than ourselves”: A qualitative study with community-based doulas in the United States

Abstract

Community-based doulas provide essential services and expertise which address inequities and systemic gaps in perinatal care. However, as they work to improve perinatal health, doulas themselves are providing equity work amidst an inequitable system and with insufficient political or financial support. Increased compensation and systemic support which acknowledges the breadth of services provided are needed to strengthen and sustain this critical part of the perinatal workforce.

Authors:

Kett PM, van Eijk MS, Guenther GA, Skillman SM

Journal/Publisher:

Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health

Edition:

Jul 2022. ePub ahead of print

Link to Article

Access the article here: Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health

Citation:

Kett PM, van Eijk MS, Guenther GA, Skillman SM. "This work that we're doing is bigger than ourselves": A qualitative study with community-based birth doulas in the United States. Perspect Sex Reprod Health. 2022;54(3):99-108. doi:10.1363/psrh.12203