Indigenous Doulas Rise to Support Maine Births

Wabanaki Public Health and Wellness has recently trained around 30 doulas, a significant step to counteract the dwindling birthing services available in Maine. The organization recognized a growing concern within its communities regarding the closure of birthing centers across the state and consequently decided to actively address this service gap.

A notable aspect of this training is the emphasis on Indigenous doulas, many of whom participated. Indigenous doulas from Canada led the sessions, integrating cultural and spiritual significance into their approach to birth. This focus on cultural practices is deemed crucial for honoring birth as a sacred ceremony.

Doulas provide essential nonmedical support, encompassing educational, physical, and emotional assistance for expectant parents and their families. Wabanaki doulas will also connect families with vital services for issues such as substance use disorder, poverty, and mental health.

The organization, which serves several Indigenous tribes in Maine, faces funding challenges. While the recent training was supported by a state grant of $385,000, the long-term viability depends on securing additional funding or achieving reimbursement through MaineCare. Discussions with the state are ongoing, with potential reimbursement changes anticipated around 2027.

Looking ahead, Wabanaki Public Health and Wellness aspires to establish an Indigenous birthing center in Maine, inspired by similar successful initiatives in other states. This vision aims to provide comprehensive, culturally sensitive care for Indigenous families during childbirth.