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Doulas Fight Black Maternal Death Crisis
9 Jun
Summary
- Black women are three times more likely to die during childbirth.
- Cook County Health's doula program offers free support.
- Doulas help rebuild trust in the healthcare system.
Black women in Illinois experience significantly higher rates of pregnancy-related deaths compared to their white counterparts. To address this critical issue, Cook County Health initiated a free doula program two years ago, investing $1 million to support expectant mothers.
This program has deployed ten doulas who have assisted over 340 patients, offering comprehensive support from pregnancy through the postpartum period. The initiative aims to rebuild trust within the healthcare system for mothers of color and improve birth outcomes by integrating doulas as part of the medical team.
Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes during childbirth and six times more likely in the year following birth. The doula program provides vital advocacy and support, helping to reduce anxiety and stress for mothers and bridging the gap between patients and healthcare providers.
