RECOMMENDATIONS FOR BLACK WOMEN AND PREGNANT PERSONS

 
 
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Learn about role of labor pain in birth (“pain with a purpose”) and explore the full range of options for dealing with it, including doula-provided comfort measures:


Educate yourself about the pros and cons of intravenous pain medications and anesthesia, including potential side effects, so that you can make informed decisions.


Learn about how a doula can support you with comfort measures for pain and emotional support. Ask whether your hospital provides free doula services. Explore doula of color networks such as the Roots of Labor Birth Collective (Bay Area).

 
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Educate yourself about the benefits of and myths about breastfeeding:


Ask yourself if you have been impacted by intergenerational trauma from slavery and shame-based narratives. Join others who are writing and healing about this.


  • Explore your options and be assertive about your choice of nutrition for your infant and your right to breastfeed if that is your choice.


  • Join a lactation support group, or support group for new mothers. Consider starting a support group/lactation support group for black new parents.

 
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Plan your first six weeks with your newborn carefully and ensure that you have adequate care and support:


Ask family and friends to help with older children, cook meals, do household chores and provide emotional support and company.

  • Learn about the signs of postpartum depression and seek professional help and community support if needed.

  • Join a new parent support group.

10. Share your story and get involved!

Share your birth story and get support for any emotional or psychological issues that may be present as a result of your birth experience.


  • If your rights have been violated, or you have experienced coercive or conflictual relationship with a health-care provider, consider changing providers, lodging a formal complaint, and joining or starting an advocacy campaign to improve standards of care at that facility.


  • Challenge media representations that fuel a fear of natural birth, or encourage overuse of medicalization and drug use during labor and delivery. Call on media outlets to sign on to commitment to support “normal” birth.


Spread the word about the #liberateBlackBirth and #Blackmamasmatter Campaigns. See the BWBJ website for more ways of getting involved.