Black woman giving birth? Is a doula a must?

Question

So my ideal birthing experience would be at home water birth with as little medical intervention as possible but because I am having a high-risk pregnancy, I know that is an unrealistic goal and it is best to be in a hospital. 
I’m concerned because there are some scary statistics out there about black women and birth. I didn’t really realize how bad it was until I myself became pregnant. My recent experiences trying to get my OB to look into the concerns I have, it was like pulling teeth, like they didn’t believe me. It’s crazy they wanted me to just “wait things out” 😩 (I will be changing OBs for sure) 
Anyway, my partner, he is very supportive and loving but he isn’t educated on anything pregnancy/birthing wise and I don’t feel like he can stand up for me the way I’d like for him to because he doesn’t really understand what is going on. I feel like I need a Doula! 
What’s your experience with you Doula? Do you feel it’s worth it to pay for one?

Answer

Definitely find someone who you feel listens and understands and responds to your concerns whether that be a new ob. Doula, midwife etc.  Those statistics are really outrageous and disheartening and seem to come from biases in how black womens concerns are brushed off.  Find someone who actually listens and respects you.

Answer

Maybe try using a midwife? They have midwife practices that deliver through hospitals (that’s how I did it and I have a high risk pregnancy (gestational hypertension)). They tend to be more sympathetic and holistic than OBs and are less likely to use interventions to get the baby out. Doulas also provide a great service and help speak up and advocate for you

Answer

Id do It of I were you. 
Black women are up to 6 times more likely to die from pregnancy related complications. Id do whatever I could to avoid that.

Answer

I've read a couple articles about the differences in how seriously the doctors take black patients versus others and if I was black, I would def hire a doula. I think that's a great idea unless you find a doctor you trust.

Answer

This is one of the main reasons my OB is always a black woman. And I will switch and change If one isnt available at first..

Answer

I never got a doula and am due September 24. I wish I could have. I know exactly what you mean though. We are viewed as over dramatic, extra, and just complaining for no reason. It would be ideal to get someone that can advocate for you and take your concerns seriously. 
Example: my sister in law was pregnant with her second. She was at the hospital and the baby was coming. She tried to tell them and they insisted she was only 6 cm and the baby was not coming anytime soon. Lo and behold the head was crowning and she had to deliver in an operating room. All because they didn’t believe her or take her seriously. As if she doesn’t know her own body, especially with a second baby. 
Just using that as an example that we are not listened to and our health is not a priority as opposed to others. I’m an Israelite (maybe you have heard of it, our true nationality) but I will be praying for a safe delivery for you and your baby and hopefully a doula will work for you.

Answer

Do it! I had a doula for my second high risk pregnancy and she was amazing. Not only did she advocate what we wanted/needed to our medical team, she helped with pain management during delivery and was a solid rock of support for my partner when he needed it too.

Answer

I did so much research as well before I got pregnant, I found me a poc ob, that was high on my list. Hate that I didnt find a doula that I liked but you have to trust yourself
 You are correct we need to be advocates for ourselves. I'm going to have my sister here for me so my wife doesn't feel overwhelmed, and can relax and enjoy the baby. Good luck!!!

Answer

I understand your worries and it’s very sad that these are the statistics. 
Women who have the same person look after them antenatally delivering their baby tend to have the best experiences so it’s helpful to have someone you know. For this reason a Doula can help if that’s not possible since it’s a familiar support person. Usually your partner would probably be sufficient but sadly as you said, Black women in the USA receive the poorest levels of maternity care sadly so having someone who has some additional knowledge of the processes may be helpful as they can fight your corner and support you if needed. Try to get one that knows the hospital :) x

Answer

No a black woman giving birth does not require a doula.

Black woman giving birth? Is a doula a must?

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