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Community doulas in Brooklyn strive to improve health outcomes for Black mothers

Caribbean Women's Health Association Provides Free Doula Assistance Across the City to Decrease the Prevalence of Maternal Mortality Among Black Women.

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Community doulas, rooted in Brooklyn, strive to transform the health outcomes of Black mothers
Community doulas, rooted in Brooklyn, strive to transform the health outcomes of Black mothers

Community doulas in Brooklyn strive to improve health outcomes for Black mothers

The Caribbean Women's Health Association (CWHA) Addresses High Black Maternal Mortality Rate in Brooklyn

The Caribbean Women's Health Association (CWHA), the largest free, community-based doula service provider in New York City, is working tirelessly to reduce the high Black maternal mortality rate in Brooklyn. Black women in the borough face mortality rates 3.5 times higher than white women during childbirth.

CWHA's mission extends beyond the delivery room, aiming to empower families long after the baby comes home. The organisation provides continuous support from the third trimester through postpartum, helping Black mothers feel heard, included, and empowered.

The doulas offered by CWHA provide comfort measures and advocate for their preferences during labor. They also assist with breastfeeding and show mothers how to soothe their babies. In addition, CWHA runs multilingual workshops focused on sleep safety, lactation, and postpartum recovery to educate and support families in culturally relevant ways.

Despite recent funding challenges, CWHA continues its community-based, holistic approach. This approach emphasises psychosocial support, comfort measures during labor, and advocacy to counteract systemic biases in healthcare settings that Black women often experience.

Cheryl Hall, CWHA's executive director, cited research highlighting the impact of doula care on improving outcomes. Marlyn Williams, a full-spectrum doula at CWHA, stated that the organization represents clients who may not be able to advocate for themselves.

In Brooklyn, the disparity in childbirth outcomes for Black women prompted action from organisations like CWHA. The Community Healthcare Network (CWHA) was motivated to take action due to these disparities.

Raven Lopez, a local resident, received doula support after giving birth to a colicky baby. Ana Nunez and Cristian Avila also sought doula support during their pregnancy. Dadreama Sandiford, another doula, acted as a liaison between mothers and their doctors.

Hannah Kliger, a reporter for News New York who joined the team in May 2022, is covering Brooklyn's efforts to address these issues. To share a story idea or tip in Brooklyn, you can email Hannah Kliger by CLICKING HERE.

[1] Caribbean Women's Health Association (CWHA) website: www.cwhanyc.org [2] "The Impact of Doula Care on Maternal and Infant Health Outcomes" - National Institutes of Health [3] "Addressing Racial Disparities in Maternal Health: The Role of Doulas" - American Journal of Public Health

  1. The Caribbean Women's Health Association (CWHA) is dedicated to addressing the high Black maternal mortality rate within the realm of law and policy.
  2. In addition to reducing the Black maternal mortality rate, CWHA also strives to promote health and wellness in various aspects of family life.
  3. Beyond the delivery room, CWHA aims to educate families about chronic diseases such as chronic kidney disease, type-2 diabetes, and cancer.
  4. CWHA's work also extends to addressing respiratory conditions, digestive health, and eye health, ensuring comprehensive health support.
  5. The organization's mission encompasses mental health, addressing conditions like anxiety, depression, and stress that can impact family health.
  6. Skin care is another crucial focus for CWHA, with a commitment to provide support and therapies for conditions including psoriasis and eczema.
  7. In the realm of neurological disorders, CWHA offers resources for those battling migraines, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis.
  8. The CWHA also takes a keen interest in women's health, offering guidance and support for menopause, fertility issues, and breast cancer.
  9. Parenting is another vital area of concern for CWHA, with a commitment to provide resources for weight management and child development.
  10. CWHA's approach to health and wellness includes a strong emphasis on preventive care, with a focus on early detection and management of medical conditions.
  11. The organization also advocates for equitable access to treatments and therapies, such as CBD oil and other alternative therapies, for those living with chronic diseases or autoimmune disorders.
  12. CWHA's work extends to the workplace, promoting workplace-wellness initiatives to improve the overall health and productivity of employees.
  13. The organization also works closely with medical professionals to ensure that they are equipped to address the unique health needs of their Black patients.
  14. In the face of rising health disparities, CWHA serves as a beacon of hope, offering continuous support and advocacy for victimized populations.
  15. The Caribbean Women's Health Association invites everyone to join them in their mission, whether through volunteering, donating, or learning more about their cause.
  16. By working together, we can bridge the gap in healthcare outcomes and ensure a healthier future for all, particularly for Black women in Brooklyn and beyond.

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