Memphis Doulas Transforming Maternal Health Support for Moms and Babies

Memphis Moms Getting a Boost: How Doulas Are Changing the Game for Maternal Health

In Memphis, a heartwarming shift in maternal health support is underway, thanks to a dedicated group of doulas working hard to improve outcomes for moms and babies alike. One such inspiring figure is Shanille Bowens, a certified birth doula and midwifery student who has dedicated her life to helping women navigate the often stressful journey of pregnancy and childbirth.

A Heartfelt Connection

Bowens’ journey into motherhood was marked by both joy and trauma. She recalls how her grandmother’s community of midwives in small-town Okolona, Mississippi, created a nurturing environment for new mothers. “When my grandma had a baby, it wasn’t just a solitary experience,” Bowens remembers, her eyes welled with pride. “There was always a group of people coming together to support her, bringing nourishing meals and love.” Sadly, Bowens’ own experience during her 2006 pregnancy was vastly different. Faced with disinterest and a lack of empathy from hospital staff, her journey led to the heartbreaking loss of her twins. The tragedy propelled her to work towards change.

Breaking Down Barriers

Now, as the founder of Naturally Nurtured Birth Services, the first doula support center in Memphis, Bowens is on a mission to empower expectant mothers. Shelby County has been known for its high rates of infant mortality and maternal deaths, particularly among Black women. It’s a crisis that Bowens and other local advocates are determined to address. With the support of initiatives from organizations like UnitedHealthcare, doulas are increasingly seen as essential partners in prenatal care.

All across town, doulas are stepping in, serving as pregnancy coaches and advocates for mothers-to-be. They provide emotional and informational support from the first flutter of pregnancy through the postpartum period. They also facilitate a vital bridge between mothers and their medical providers, ensuring that women’s voices are heard and respected during some of the most critical moments of their lives.

A Promising Pilot Project

UnitedHealthcare has tapped Bowens to lead a groundbreaking pilot project for women covered by Medicaid in Memphis. By the end of 2024, 400 women will have access to professional doula support at no charge. Not only does this initiative aim to reduce the staggering statistics around maternal and infant deaths, but it also includes valuable resources such as yoga classes, nutritious food, and postpartum care kits.

The results have already been promising, with reports indicating a significant boost in prenatal visit rates and reduced instances of preterm births for those partnered with doulas. “Our studies show that when women receive doula support, they are far less likely to have complicated pregnancies,” a spokesperson from UnitedHealthcare stated.

Community-Focused Solutions

In a community where 40% of residents live without a job and many lack health insurance, Bowens and her team are focusing on providing culturally sensitive support. The Naturally Nurtured facility is intentionally located close to those who need it most, offering a safe space for women to gather, learn, and support one another. “We’re not just here for the birth; we’re here for the mom’s whole journey,” Bowens emphasized.

The Power of Connection

With her team of doulas, Bowens is not just delivering babies – they’re also helping moms navigate the complexities of healthcare. A doula can assist with everything from understanding pregnancy symptoms to breastfeeding challenges and even household needs. “Many moms don’t realize how much help they’re really entitled to,” shared Rhonda Okoth, one of Bowens’ doulas. “We listen and empower them to make informed decisions.”

Stories from mothers highlight the positive impact these services can have. For example, Kimberly McClatchey, a Memphis mom of four, credits her doula with helping her gain the confidence she needed during her last pregnancy. “Having a doula helped me learn to breathe through contractions, but it also gave me a sense of control over my experience,” McClatchey shared, her eyes sparkling with gratitude.

A Community Effort

As more women advocate for their care and seek the support they deserve, the tide is slowly turning. Local policymakers are also taking notice, with efforts to expand Medicaid coverage for doula services gaining traction. Bowens sees this as a critical step in recognizing that every woman deserves support in her motherhood journey, regardless of her socioeconomic status.

Looking to the Future

In Memphis, the chatter around maternal health is becoming louder and more hopeful, thanks to passionate advocates like Shanille Bowens and her amazing team of doulas. As they continue to push for change and challenge the status quo, there’s no doubt that their work will have long-lasting impacts on the lives of mothers and babies alike. “We believe we can change the narrative and help create a healthier, happier community,” Bowens said with a heart full of hope.

It’s clear that in the heart of Memphis, the rumblings of change are turning into actions and actions are, one by one, creating a better future for the next generation.