Birth Stories in Color

The year 2020 will forever be etched in the minds of those who lived to tell the tale. Oh, the stories we will tell. The smoke and mirrors were dispersed and the United States revealed its true self. We bore witness to Riot, after Riot, after Riot. The revolution appeared to be televised after all. But deep in our communities the true revolution was brewing. Many Black women and birthing people continued to give birth despite the headlines, the statistics, and the odds stacked against them. But they didn’t just give birth; they gave birth how they wanted, where they wanted, and focused on what was most important to them. A surprise pregnancy anchored Chris and Raquel’s growing family and allowed them to sway but not break during an uncertain time. Raquel entered the pregnancy unemployed due to a hiring freeze, from the shutdown, that kept her from starting her new position. Chris became the sole provider as they moved forward with the pregnancy.  The first few weeks of pregnancy brought about two different mental shifts. Anxiety filled Raquel as she continued to apply for jobs and manage the COVID-19 pandemic while pregnant. The isolation was challenging but allowed for a slower pace and opportunities to be introspective. Chris had a more challenging experience with his employer and managing how he would navigate the birth and postpartum period. He did not have paternity leave and intended to take leave without pay. The thought of it was scary as he knew he would be bucking the system. The Williams chose to keep their pregnancy to themselves aside from their parents. Their birth plans were kept under wraps and allowed them to keep out the noise, opinions, and outside stressors. Chris and Raquel chose a homebirth with a midwife and a doula. They utilized their resources and access to do it their way. Raquel dove into research on birth and parenting. Chris had the mentality of being ready when the time came. He found himself focused on trying to go against the negative stereotypes of Black fathers. Holistic care equipped Raquel with education, mental fortitude, and an understanding of what childbirth could include. When she started to feel the small ripples of early labor she contacted her birth team which included her midwife, doula, and birth photographer. Chris was spending the day attending graduation ceremonies for his students. Raquel told Chris he was fine to go and she knew it would be fine. They had a late dinner but didn’t set up the birthing tub because it was too late in the day. The waves were not close enough for her to think that she was in active labor. She checked in with her midwife and she told her to use her discernment. Raquel took a Tylenol PM and they enjoyed a movie and facials until she fell asleep. Around four in the morning, Raquel stated that she had to poop. They went down together, Chris could see her from the door, and as Raquel made a maneuver he said, “I don’t think that’s poop.” Chris was scared that the baby had died, due to the shape and stillness of her head. Meanwhile, Raquel was in a calm, zen state as she assured Chris the baby was ok. They were able to Facetime their midwife to manage the delivery of the baby. Chris caught their baby with a nuchal cord and unwrapped it and placed the baby on Raquel’s chest. The midwife entered the house shortly after. Dani and the birth photographer joined them shortly afterward for postpartum support and photography. Immediately postpartum, they walked back down the hall with their baby. The experience of having their team come to them and the care that was provided for them had them in awe. Raquel believes that everything we need to have children… we already have it. We’ve been having babies like this forever.

Our guest, CEO of Emagine Solutions Technology Courtney Williams, is the creator of The Journey Pregnancy App. The app enables patients to vital signs during pregnancy and then transmits this information in real-time and creates a record. Beyond that it issues a call to action for users to contact their providers when they enter vitals that are out of bounds based on ACOG standards. This technology was developed after Courtney experienced Postpartum Preeclampsia, a rare condition that occurs when you have high blood pressure and excess protein in your urine soon after childbirth. She was already working in maternal health technology.Courtney’s pregnancy started in 2019; she gave birth at the height of the first wave of the pandemic in 2020. The pregnancy started well; she ate right and worked out daily. But the gym access stopped due to the pandemic - unfortunately, this was a major stress reliever for Courtney. She also utilized acupuncture with a naturopathic provider. Eventually, she lost access to that support due to growing concerns due to the pandemic. It had been helpful for morning sickness; this was another hit to her emotional support.A week before the childbirth, Courtney's son measured big and they were scheduled for a surgical birth; which she was ok with because it eased her uncertainty. Unfortunately, the hospital would not allow her doula to be present. Courtney’s husband was her sole support during the birth and everything went well as they welcomed their son. In the hours and days after the birth, her body started swelling. Courtney presented with a headache and pronounced chest pain five days postpartum. She attempted to contact her provider but did not get a response; she decided to go to the emergency room, where she was diagnosed with Postpartum Preeclampsia. After returning home, she needed to report to her doctor’s office multiple days in a week for blood pressure readings. This brought about challenges in their breastfeeding/pumping journey. Courtney was surprised that there wasn't technology to ease the challenges for new parents to go to frequent appointments during the early phases of postpartum.We will save ourselves. We have everything we need within ourselves to rebuild birth better. Being active participants in our care, engaging providers who acknowledge and respect our voices, and equipping ourselves with innate knowledge and an understanding of how our unique bodies respond to pregnancy are key components in creating safer, joy-filled birth experiences. Resources:The Journey Pregnancy App | software app that enables patients to track vital signs in pregnancy and transmits this information to providers in real timeEmagine Solutions Technology | tackling the U.S. maternal health crisis with remote patient monitoring for pregnancy careHealth in her Hue | a digital platform that connects Black women and women of color to culturally competent and sensitive healthcare providers, and offers health information and contentBlack Maternal Health Center of Excellence | provides maternity care & support in Los Angeles CountyWolomi App | digital community that offers support to women of color to improve maternal health outcomesSHERO | online prenatal programCentral Phoenix OBGYN | Dr. Sharon Thompson - supportive pregnancy care

Meeting Emoni and listening to her pregnancy and birth reminds one of the classic interview of a young Serena Williams when the interviewer asked her repeatedly why she thought she was going to win her match. Her father Richard Williams interrupted the interview and told the reporter to “leave that alone.” The “that” he referred to was Serena’s confidence. He was deeply protective of that which he and her mother had built through practice and words. For those entrusted with the work of birth in any capacity and for those entrusted with someone sharing their birth wishes, “Leave that alone.” Birthing in confidence doesn’t mean to be ignorant of the possibilities that something could go wrong. But it does help shape the mind to prepare the body for the work ahead in pregnancy, labor, delivery, and parenthood. Emoni knew she didn’t want to give birth in a hospital. She connected with the resources within her community to help push her vision into motion. A local midwife, the dedicated doulas of ROOTT, her child’s father, and her mother were entrusted with her vision and supported her through the birthing experience from early conception through her first 18 months of motherhood. Laboring in her mother’s home at her own pace was an empowering experience. The birth she envisioned happened. Emoni’s mom described it as the most powerful birth she’d ever been present for. The high of labor would soon turn to postpartum lows. Despite having extended support from her doula, Emoni struggled with postpartum depression. Having support doesn’t mean you won’t experience mental health challenges. Postpartum depression can be the perfect storm of lower oxytocin and increased cortisol. Emoni did make her way through postpartum depression. She wishes she had asked for more help but more importantly, she wished she knew what she could ask for, reflections she hopes informs others. Restoring Our Own Through Transformation (ROOTT) | reproductive justice organizationLG Doula | full spectrum doula, birth & postpartum photographer 

Stacee describes her current state of being as her motherhood era. She has birthed two of their children with her husband, and to look at them now you would have no clue what it took to get here. Conception did not come easy. Childbirth brought its challenges. Postpartum complications nearly ended it all. Stacee and Shawn’s family was forged in the fire. Stacee and her husband, Shawn, held strong to not only each other but to their dream of adding to their family as well.While Shawn and Stacee’s story details two live births, their first pregnancy ended in a miscarriage. A miscarriage that has allowed Stacee to be empathetic of those who have endured similar experiences. She talked about the feelings of isolation and loneliness that is matched with the mystery of miscarriages. The inexplicable loss of a child whose life is not yet deemed viable and the lack of compassion in medical settings as it’s happening.  Welcoming a new life into the world is a joyous occasion, but the postpartum period can bring about various health complications for mothers. While many women and birthing people experience a smooth recovery after childbirth, it’s essential to be aware of potential challenges and seek timely medical attention when needed.Excessive bleeding after childbirth, known as postpartum hemorrhage, can be life-threatening. Healthcare providers closely monitor mothers for signs of hemorrhage and may intervene with medications or, in severe cases, surgical procedures to control bleeding. Stacee found herself faced with this after her first birth. Her immediate postpartum journey started with stabilizing her daughter's blood sugar levels which led to the discovery that she had a rare condition that not only needed special treatment but a specific medical team an hour away from where they lived. They took a medical flight, while Stacee was barely able to acknowledge any of her own needs. During that trip, as her daughter was getting the help she needed at a pediatric hospital; Stacee eventually went to the hospital next door for her own care. They discovered that she still had sponges inside of her from her surgical birth and was having a postpartum hemorrhage. Pause. Breathe. Sit.The emotional enormity of a near-miss affects everyone in the family. Stacee is here to share her story. Shawn is here to share his vantage point of their story. Their babies are here to love their mother. Stacee and Shawn’s words carry the weight.

Esther McCant, founder and CEO of Metro Mommy Agency, opened up about her five pregnancies, which included a miscarriage that would push her to self-advocate with her medical provider.Esther’s first pregnancy happened within the first few months of her marriage. Six weeks later, she learned that she had a blighted ovum and her provider prepared her to miscarry. She had the choice to let the ovum pass or go to the hospital for a DNC. She stayed home as long as she could but eventually went to the hospital. Esther recalled the doctor taking quite a while to see her, and when she did she insisted that Esther still needed a DNC even though everything had passed. She felt threatened by the doctor about the potential that she could bleed out. This interaction helped Esther to trust herself. She chose to leave and go home. The grieving process started; she became pregnant again within a few months. The hospital miscarriage experience led her to want to explore other birthing options. Her sister-in-law invited her to  her calming water birth; which helped her see a new vision. Esther found a midwife who resonated with her and a doula who could support her choices. The midwife was able to support her in a birthing center.Walking around the neighborhood of the birthing center helped move her labor along. Their family started to arrive and became overwhelmed. The midwife asked some of the family members to leave to clear the space. Her mother stayed and it was after the birth and looking at pictures from her doula that she was able to see the relationship she had with her mother in a different light. Her mother, who had only given birth surgically,  had an opportunity to bring healing for herself as she fed Esther and cared for her during her labor. Baby would arrive with a nuchal hand and in the OP position by squatting.The third pregnancy brought on changes that would impact her nutrition, wellness, and the birthing environment she desired; which included a water birth.  Feminine energy filled the birthing space by inviting her sisters-in-law. Her son’s birth was challenging as she had back labor. She regrets not getting chiropractic care and having a doula this time. Postpartum was filled with engaging with other women as opposed to the more isolating experience she had after her first birth.They had moved from Florida to Alabama, and the difference in provider options was vastly different. In Florida, Esther could have a Certified Professional Midwife, a Certified Nurse Midwife, or a Licensed Midwife deliver her baby. Unfortunately, Alabama did not have those options at the time in 2014. Alabama has terrible birth outcomes and race relations. She could only deliver with a midwife if an obstetrician was present during the labor and delivery.  Esther felt low during the pregnancy because they were living with her parents and living paycheck to paycheck. Esther decided to leave the state when she was ready to give birth. She provided much of her prenatal care until she found a midwife in Tennessee. Her midwife helped her be more proactive about her health and nutrition; including lowering toxins in their environment and skin care. Postpartum preparation was top of mind as she would be traveling to give birth.When Esther thought she was in labor they made the two-and-a-half-hour trek to Chattanooga to no avail as the baby was not ready. They turned the trip into a babymoon and would make the trip again a couple of days later. Esther and her husband brought the kids along to meet up with her family who would care for them. They didn’t make it there on time due to a flat tire problem. Esther gave birth within 6 hours of leaving their home and although she felt distracted by having the other children there and wondering where her family was. Esther’s Haitian roots welcomed the Haitian bath, teas, and essential oils, and started the restoration process with her mother coming to support her.When Esther had her fourth son, she was a trained birth doula. She envisioned a waterbirth with her partner,  two midwives, and two doulas present. The birth and pregnancy were heavy in dealing with the ongoing race issues in our country and the experiences of Black men and boys. Giving herself space to release those feelings during long labor allowed her to relax in her body and give birth smoothly. Her vision would come true as she delivered her son in a haze of joy.Adding value to herself and the clients she serves now catapulted Esther to take a deep and intentional dive into more doula training and become a Certified Lactation Counselor. Additionally, she serves other doulas in the country as a mentor in birth work and business. Resources: Metro Mommy Agency | serving women with support and education to navigate through their journey into motherhood

Storytelling is always where the truth lies. It's an authentic account of our experiences - without modification, questions, or uncertainty. Validation that our experience and voice matter. We know what the narrative has been created around black fathers, what they are or aren't doing. What fatherhood has or hasn't meant to them. In our community, though we feel the truth, we know the role black fathers have in the foundation of their families.In 2020 in collaboration with Heather Gallagher (photojournalist Heather Gallagher photographer), we highlighted and amplified the voices of black fathers in our community. We are thrilled, to be able to bring the series back with five fathers from our local Columbus, Ohio community. Four of them sharing with us a little bit of who they are, what fatherhood means to them, and the joy in their journey. A special layer to this year was giving these fathers their flowers of celebration in partnership with Black Men Flower Project, and The Bloom Boutique 614. Black Men Flower Project gives blooms to show appreciation to Black men - honoring their life in the present moments. One father shared that this was the first time he had ever received flowers - beaming with pride, he exclaimed "I feel pretty!" These voices and their lives are a gift, and we are truly grateful and honored to share them with you all!

Raena Boston, Founder of the Chamber of Mothers and The Momtras, joined us to share her three birth experiences and the makings of motherhood. Raena's first pregnancy lead her down a new path for her family by choosing a birth center instead of a hospital. Her provider was off-putting and the idea of shifting to different providers within the practice helped her make the decision.The birth center experience with Baby Aksel was beautiful. She arrived at the birth center at 4 cm dilated after a night of laboring at home. Her husband, Travis, and their doula were supportive and helped her manage labor and delivery.Their second pregnancy would be a "happy accident" 10 months after their first son was born.  They chose to work with the birth center again. Baby Asher came a little over a week passed his estimated due date. Walking around the neighborhood was helpful but she had become anxious and tired of being pregnant. Not to mention managing a toddler through the last few days before the birth. True to form Raena arrived at the birth center 6cm dilated with the understanding of her body's needs helping direct her labor. The midwife was laid back and focused on ensuring Raena listened to her body and felt empowered through the process. Baby Asher was born shortly afterward with some concern as he arrived covered in meconiumAfter bringing two kids earthside Raena and Travis experienced a hard period in their marriage as they navigated how they would move forward together. 2021 would usher in another "happy accident" after they chose each other and worked on their relationship. This pregnancy and birth would be during the pandemic. They wanted to use the birth center again. The initial prenatal appointment was different, as discussions about her BMI became an issue. The nurse mentioned her race and BMI as reasons they needed to take more measures,including a daily aspirin and early screening for gestational diabetes, despite never having a medical history of high blood pressure or gestational diabetes. Raena attempted to address her concerns about how she was being treated; she regrets not listening to her gut. The mask mandate was rescinded in Florida; the practice also stopped requiring mask-wearing due to the pressure of other patients who didn't want to wear the masks. During a 38-week appointment, Raena was handed a packet for her appointment and a slip of paper fell out that read "BMI-out of bounds". She was instantly triggered by this and started to feel agitated. She then had a high blood pressure reading that led to a conversation that would make a major shift in her pregnancy. Raena's blood pressure continued to get higher as the days passed. She and Travis had started conversing about switching to a homebirth with another midwife. Her blood pressure reached 174/106; they planned to go to the hospital.Transitioning their birth plan was mentally challenging but after getting settled into the idea that she would stay at the hospital. Raena was able to maintain a decent BP without continuous high readings. They started an induction when Raena was ready, as she wanted a different doctor on call. The staff at the hospital was mindful that the hospital was not her first choice and worked with her through her options. The environment wasn't ideal; she pushed through her expectations. The intensity was high and the doctor wanted to break her water. She felt unheard and over-talked during labor. Raena pushed their baby out, and Travis announced the sex. They were on a high as they acknowledged that they had survived a challenging season in marriage and were proud of themselves as a couple.Processing her last birth has shed light on the lessons learned; like paying attention when people and places have changed or that you have changed and know you need something different. Listen to the wisdom of your body. Self-advocacy can be learned the hard way or we can pick it up from those who came before us. You don't have to be a model patient. Raena vows to never, ever abandon herself again.Resources:The Working Momtras | community of affirmations, stories, and connection - through the lens of motherhoodChamber of Mothers | a nonprofit focusing on uniting mothers as advocates to America’s priorities on mothers’ rights

A few years have passed since we last heard from Dasia. She shared her first birth story which included a home birth transfer to the hospital where she endured birth trauma. Since our last chat on the podcast, Dasia added birth doula to her growing list of titles and passions.  This second pregnancy was unexpected but welcome. Her threshold of knowledge had shifted not just within birth work but what she knew about herself after becoming a mother for the first time. In retrospect, she acknowledges that she wanted to repair the issues of her first traumatic birth and didn’t allow herself to sit in the joy and miracle of the second birth. She dove head first, determined to create a birth dream team and the home birth of her desires. She found a doula and midwife that aligned with her needs. The desire to prepare her body for labor and commit to her care was strengthened by weekly commitments to a chiropractor, massage therapist, and float therapy. When asked if she sought mental health therapy during this pregnancy Dasia took us through a moment of self-reflection. She remembers researching therapists and never pushing forward. There is resistance to seeing one’s self as deserving and not minimizing hardships about other difficult times. Her husband and best friend, Juvante, was working out of town for the majority of the pregnancy. His physical absence was the removal of her sounding board and being seen. This was an emotional strain but she still felt mentally sound, which made it feel less pressing to address. The idea of invalidating our own experiences is sitting with her and is allowing her to pause in the now. Unpacking this birth was two-fold as Dasia prepared for survival and maintained her plan to birth in a safe space.Dasia’s labor started during her braiding appointment. Although she thought they were Braxton-Hicks her stylist sped up the process. Dasia consulted with her doula and midwife and they told her things would come as they were supposed to. She spent the rest of her day with her family as the contractions continued. The frequency and intensity of the contractions increased. She kept denying the labor but gave herself space to eat and rest. She finally informed the birth team how the day was going. She experienced a sharp pain through each contraction. She wasn’t concerned but wanted to relieve it. Dasia came into acceptance of labor as she tried to take a warm bath that did not slow things down at all. There was a fear of losing stamina that stemmed from the first birth that pushed her to rest. The midwife arrived around 2:00 am and peacefully joined the space. Her husband stepped in as her doula as he was ever-present and supporting her needs. Squatting through her contractions while her husband held her felt deeply vulnerable. She could feel the shifts in engagement and transition proved mentally challenging as she was processing that her home birth was happening. Instincts kicked in and her body made the shifts needed to plant her feet in the present. Her husband told her he can see the baby’s hair and they welcomed their second baby girl shortly afterward. Building a village of community support has been heavy work for Dasia and Juvante in this postpartum season. They are in a space of being close to family geographically but not connected in a way that supports their growing family’s needs.  This is the challenge of postpartum, especially after the pandemic has weakened some relationships with distance. The intentionality of seeking out support and building relationships isn’t easy but necessary. Resources:Therapy for Black Girls | online space dedicated to encouraging the mental wellness of Black women and girlsSpinning Babies | pregnancy preparation as well as labor activities to ease birthSusan the Birth Doula|specializes in birth and postpartum advocacy, education, and support for expecting mothersLove ‘N’ Touch (Sekesa Berry) | traditional community midwifery care serving the Atlanta area

Birth doula and student-midwife Trinity Stephens is serving the Southwestern Ohio birthing community at an early age. She's 17 years old but has been a birth worker for four years. She completed her initial training with her Aunt Rhonda and has continued to build her skills and garner further education through training and hands-on work with local midwives.After attending her first birth, virtually, she couldn't serve in the hospital due to her age. Trinity reached out to local midwives to see if she could shadow them. Her parents were supportive and encouraged her to learn a trade; this work aligned with what they had instilled in her.  They fully invested in the desires of her heart. As a homeschooler, her schedule allows for freedom of choice and how she spends her time. Trinity was also able to attend college classes and started her research on Black Maternal and Infant Health and solutions to better outcomes and positive experiences. Her research led her to think beyond doula work and explore the obstetrician/gynecologist route. She knows that Black women need to feel safe in their pregnancy journey, and Trinity wants to be a haven. Eventually, she connected with a midwife willing to meet with her, and she has been attending births with her ever since. Trinity fell in love with home birth and has shifted her plans to become a midwife. Seeing safe, natural births have helped her see the possibilities for birthing people to birth without fear and unnecessary interventions. Trinity understands that midwives need to prepare for challenges during birth, and this has also helped her be patient with the midwifery process. She has attended over 100 births and counting. Each birth helps her become more confident about the work ahead. None of the births she has attended count towards her midwifery journey because she hasn't graduated from high school yet. She's not rushing the process and loves learning.Exploring her family tree regarding birth work has created some interest in her lineage and how it is a birthright. She has three practicing doulas in her family;  her cousin, BSiCs own, Danielle Jackson, her Aunt Rhonda, and her Great Aunt Joyce. She encourages more people to answer the call because our people need us. Stepping into the work humble and ready to receive correction. We have an ask - if you feel led to support Trinity with her Midwifery journey, please listen to her birth story, and donate to her Cashapp: Bennies Babies The Doula Service.

This is a story that includes loss - In memory of Troya SimoneKay’s expectation of pregnancy was to feel joy. Her life was falling into place the way she wanted it to regarding her personal and professional life. She inquired about the effects of her workload and the pregnancy. Her provider said as long as she felt good, she could continue working the way she had been. Despite her provider's reassurance, she decided to start scaling back her work as a chef/entrepreneur. A few weeks later, she started feeling bad while she was at a party. She had a high pain tolerance and found herself pushing through without seeking help, submitting to the strong Black woman persona. The pain continued, and Kay called 911; she woke up in the ICU. Kay lost her baby. She lost the joy in her pregnancy. Her daughter was stillborn. She couldn’t hold her, not because she wasn't allowed but because she didn’t want to; there was a disconnect. Ten years later, she still feels that loss.The postpartum period for the parents of a stillborn child goes beyond the initial trauma of not bringing their child home. Kay and her husband live in the state of Texas, where it is required to name and bury their child. She had to ask the nurse where her baby was as if no one had considered her in the process. Her OB told her that she had never lost a baby. The coldness of the responses, tone, and lack of care added more pain to her grief. The medical staff at the hospital offered microaggressions with a side of coldness, leaving her to feel blamed for the loss. Life after the loss was harder than the loss. The words of her friends and family weren’t comforting. The idea of another opportunity to be pregnant again didn’t soothe or heal her. Give it time; tough words that proved to be isolating. The help she needed was hard to explain. She couldn’t articulate what she needed even when people asked her directly. Kay described herself as a broken plate without enough glue to put it back together. A rebirth at 7-8 months postpartum saved Kay. She could feel herself withering away. The domino effect of infant loss started and shifted her community, the loss of things and people, friendships, and relationships, including her partner. They had to separate and rebuild from scratch after Kay spent some time to herself in deep healing. Journaling her feelings helped her explore her patterns and how to dictate the outcomes of her days. She started asking people about their birth stories, which opened the door for people to talk about their losses, abortions, joy, and pain. Kay saw the mental health needs of birthing people as a new cause to fight and build for. Her life as a chef was winding down as she fulfilled her commitments without the love for the work.Kay’s passion for Black Maternal Mental Health grew The Shades of Blue Project. Centering the experience of birth and not the outcome is inclusive and not isolating. Social support in the form of diapers, formula, etc. Mental health support for losses of all types, miscarriages, stillbirths, and abortions. Creating safe spaces that are accessible for the people, decreasing barriers to resources, help serve those who need it most. A beautiful boutique designed to empower its clients to be engaged in their own experiences with dignity. What you do for yourself helps you serve others. This year (2023) the Black Maternal Mental Health Week, created and hosted by Kay and The Shades of Blue Project, will continue their I.N.S.P.I.R.E. Method training. The intention is to provide compassionate care methods specifically for women of color and minorities, which doulas can implement, midwives, clinicians, and those facilitating support groups. Resources:Shades of Blue Project | dedicated to helping women before, during and after child-birth with community resources, mental health advocacy, treatment and support

Creatives Jenni & Bryson had built a life together, centering their work in music and writing before their baby girl joined the family. Their pregnancy journey started with extreme nausea for Jenni. She sought medical support for her discomfort and found relief in prescription nausea medication. Jenni was interested in midwifery care but was “risked out” due to blood pressure issues. However, she was able to find medical providers that met her needs.Listening to and watching birth stories helped Jenni prepare for pregnancy and birth. It came to a point where she had to start filtering her choices as it became information overload that triggered anxiety. Bryson and Jenni attended a virtual birthing class together and hired a doula toward the end of the pregnancy for additional support with advocacy and physical support. Deep-seated fear surrounding dying during childbirth under the care of hospital providers had settled into Jenni’s psyche. Routine prenatal appointments left her second-guessing the information she received from her providers. Jenni reached out to other Black medical and birth professionals for reassurance and additional information. The challenges of being a pregnant Black woman felt mentally heavy, constantly trying to read between the lines and discern information for accuracy. She found herself being very direct when with her care providers as she needed an induction. Jenni was concerned about a pulmonary embolism as she saw it in the media as a common cause of death or challenges during childbirth. She discussed a plan of care if she developed clots before consenting to her subsequent surgical birth.Jenni and Bryson chose a surgical birth after a prolonged, four-day induction. The surgery was a shift from her vision but ended up being the most positive and relieving part of her labor and birth story.  Jenni felt good after her birth in terms of pain management. Once her body calmed down when they were at home, she could feel the sleep deprivation in conjunction with breastfeeding challenges. Their daughter had screaming fits that led them to call the nurse for support; that night, their nurse explored the idea of one night of baby formula. Jenni gave herself permission to rest by using supplemental formula for the night. Bryson ventured out in the middle of the night to purchase a can. However, when he returned to the house, all was well, and their baby girl had nursed. The reassurance of having a backup plan to feed their baby gave them some relief and peace. Their breastfeeding journey has been enjoyable for Jenni and their baby girl.Accessing local programs for moms and families was a significant key to planning for birth and managing postpartum life. Jenni recommends exploring what is available in your area, especially if designed for Black families. Centering the whole family's needs beyond the pregnancy added value to their parenting journey. Resources:Healthy Birth Initiative | opening up access to health care and providing ongoing support to pregnant Black and African American women and their families before and after birthBlack Parent Initiative | culture-specific, community-centered organization, creating innovative, culturally-relevant and sustainable interventions and opportunities for families

Black & Queer Mama, Shay Australia and her Filipino partner, Paul, took a deep dive into preconception into what pregnancy would look like for him and her clear expectations of his engagement. He was locked in and in agreement with how he wanted to show up. They both made changes during the pregnancy to improve their health, which included smoking cessation and abstaining from alcohol. They made a commitment to be involved with doula and midwifery care. After trying to conceive for a few months without success, they took a break from trying and they found out they were expecting soon after. During their break, Shay attended a doula training and gained a wealth of knowledge that she immediately found helpful.Shay was unsure of how they would manage the costs of their birth plan desires. She applied for Medi-Cal and unleashed a barrage of resources that helped them access the support they wanted. They would plan to deliver at a birthing center with a midwife. She took advantage of prenatal yoga, walking groups, and other classes that would support their journey. Paul leaned into his role and prepared for the birth side by side with Shay.Deep-growing fears about bringing their baby earthside started to cause anxiety for her. Knowing her baby was safe within her body was assuring. However, the time would come when she would have to manage parenthood in the outside world. They started to develop a birth plan and decide who to invite to their sacred space. Her midwife helped her set the tone and environment that would welcome their child. They started curating a list of people that best fit the space they wanted to create. This exercise made way for uncomfortable conversations with people they loved. Managing conversations about gender identity was critical in creating the family dynamics and open communication they desired. These conversations and challenges with relationships through the pregnancy drastically changed her initial ideas about birth presence. Isolation set in, causing emotional stress but allowed her to center herself and Paul as they stepped into this new chapter together.Paul and Shay’s labor and delivery experience started after a week of prodromal labor. They were deep in labor land at home until they decided when they could go to the birthing center. The midwife met them at their home to support and monitor her progress. Shortly after their time together, they were ready to transition to the birthing space. Contractions were building as the intensity grew. Shay felt fully supported to trust her body and baby to birth. She reached the point of no return as the baby slipped out quickly. They bonded immediately as their lactation journey began with the newborn crawl.Arriving home about three hours after the delivery was jarring as they felt unprepared to be left alone with a new human. Paul felt safe with Shay’s wealth of knowledge, while she was not as confident as he believed she was. They watched their baby be content to sleep for hours and listened for breathing. After a couple of weeks of confinement, Shay welcomed guests to drop off food and brief check-ins. Shay’s physical recovery was going well until she had a spell of blurred vision, a headache, and faintness came upon her. Having spent much of her life experiencing these symptoms as a form of migraines set in. She called Paul for support and reported to the hospital. The doctors performed tests and procedures to determine a diagnosis. However, they did not have a physical health diagnosis and recommended a mental health evaluation. The mental health professionals determined Shay’s physical manifestations were anxiety, which gave her an understanding that she had been experiencing anxiety her whole life. She was grateful to have a diagnosis that has led to a healthier mental health outlook. Shay stands by setting boundaries in life, especially during pregnancy for expectant families. She has created a series of books about motherhood and a birth story journal that helps birthing people process their pregnancy and labor in real-time and as postpartum support.Resources:Roots of Labor Birth Collective | doula support serving families in the Bay areaBirthing Justice | black women, pregnancy & childbirthJulia Chinyere Oparah | Birthing Justice co-editor, professor, and chair of Ethnic Studies at Mills College and a founding member of Black Women Birthing JusticeSumi’s Touch | full spectrum pregnancy, birth, and postpartum support and doula trainingBirthland | Oakland based, women of color owned midwifery practiceMarin Family Birth Center | provides innovative health and wellness services to all, with the goal of African American health equityKindred Soul | offers families support before, during and after birth through Doula Services, Midwifery Care, herbal products and more

With the culmination of a marriage biodata form, a year of cyberstalking, and the power of liquid courage Priya and Harsh finally connected. After a  short courtship, they would marry during the Covid-19 pandemic. The couple found out they were expecting their first child while still managing the pandemic and the challenges it would bring to their parenthood journey. They were committed to learning how to prepare for birth.Priya would experience intense fatigue during the first trimester, depending heavily on support from her sister for guidance and an empathetic employer for grace. The second-trimester energy provided an opportunity to front-load her work to prepare for maternity leave. Harsh and Priya researched and prepared for their birth and postpartum; they felt empowered by their education. Additionally, Priya continued to exercise throughout the pregnancy. They filled their knowledge gaps utilizing books, podcasts, and a birth class. She engaged in collecting gently used baby items to lower the costs of welcoming their little one using a “buy nothing group.” Harsh was focused on keeping Priya happy and setting the family up for success. His mother was critical in maintaining a steady supply of prepared meals for them during pregnancy and in the postpartum period. Intentional postpartum planning included a traditional Indian baby shower that helped them feel supported.Due to the nature of the pandemic and limited access to additional hospital guests, Harsh took on the task of learning doula skills. He studied physiological birth and ways to manage the birthing space, which included the BRAIN acronym (Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, Instinct or Intuition, and Nothing). These skills were instrumental in making decisions for Priya and baby as shifts arose.On the day labor started, they tested their new skills and managed laboring at home until they suspected a ruptured membrane (her water broke). Because they were unsure of the leak, they contacted the hospital and planned to make their way in to check and bring their bags in case they needed to stay. They were informed that it was hospital policy to keep patients whose membranes had ruptured regardless of their stage of labor. Priya and Harsh kept busy by having a dance party and keeping Priya active as much as possible to help the baby engage and progress. Harsh was attentive and helped Priya build her oxytocin levels. She recounted the magical feelings she had with him being there. Their partnership was in full bloom in the birthing space. Harsh describes his most important job as maintaining the order of operations for comforting Priya. It included supporting her breathing, music & dancing, her favorite crepe cake, and a “push” gift.After realizing that each nurse on duty had a different skill set, taking ownership of her labor would help them get back in the driver’s seat of their care. Priya recalled her Built to Birth class resources that reminded her to stay active even with an epidural. She enlisted Harsh and tried to enlist the nurses to help support position changes but was met with resistance. She eventually allowed her body to rest and prepare for the next stage of labor. Harsh’s vantage point allowed him to see kind caregivers who weren’t trained to promote natural physiological birth. He also realized that he was the only man in the room and his voice felt small in this space. He didn’t feel  he had a right to tell everyone (including Priya) to pause and bring attention back to their birth plan and preferences. He’s confident that other men feel the same way and would benefit from having a female doula to advocate in the room to help slow down the pace.After 3-4 hours of pushing and intense back pain, Priya’s provider recommended a surgical birth. Harsh and Priya agreed that after discussing their case and acknowledging all of the hard work she had put in, to make an empowered decision to have a surgical birth. Harsh praised the caregiver team as the surgery was efficient and smooth. They met their son and gently bonded with him as Priya continued to receive care.Immediately postpartum, they surprisingly discovered that their doctor had a horrible bedside manner. They had experienced being rushed at prenatal appointments but had considered it a system issue. However, they felt dismissed after asking the provider for more information about her body during and after surgery. She recommended they watch a YouTube video as she couldn't explain her eight years of medical experience. Postpartum is going well. Family care supported the first six months after the baby was born. They have developed a playbook and contribute to it as the family shifts, and their baby grows. It keeps them connected and helps balance the parenting load gap.Their advice for expectant and new parents… ask for help, accept the support, stay out of work for as long as possible, access physical therapy, and involve the non-birthing partner in everything.(BSiC TIP- You can sign an Against Medical Advisement (AMA) form to leave a hospital if you determine that is what is best for you.)Resources:Built to Birth | online evidence-based childbirth education class

After a high blood pressure read at 20 weeks gestation, Mya started care with Maternal Fetal Medicine out of an abundance of caution. Seven weeks later, she would report to the hospital with a headache, feeling sick, and an even higher blood pressure reading, ultimately diagnosed with preeclampsia. Mya, a registered nurse, immediately knew her birth would be different than expected. Her doula met her at the hospital, as she was still being monitored and trying to keep the baby in utero as long as possible. Mya faced many decisions regarding her care about how she wanted to deliver her daughter; vaginal induced birth or surgical birth. She decided on a surgical birth. Mya wanted her husband to be engaged in the process by being able to cut the cord. During delivery, she was still managing her blood pressure through medications, magnesium sulfate, and Labetalol. The magnesium sulfate was hard on her body as it caused nausea, and she wasn't allowed to eat during administration. Balancing different rooms to stabilize her blood pressure and monitoring; went on for eight days until her daughter was born. Mya noted that administering medication for a patient versus being the patient was a very different experience. She had to step out of her "nurse mind" to be able to advocate for herself.As baby Aria's umbilical cord showed signs of inadequate blood flow; Mya initiated the request for her cesarean birth. She would enter the world healthy, screaming with her eyes wide open. She weighed a little over a pound and was rushed to the NICU with her father.  Mya stayed at the hospital for three additional days. She was ready to go home for rest and nourishment, but it was gut-wrenching to have to leave her daughter at the hospital. Thankfully, she had started pumping and was able to deliver several tubes of colostrum to the NICU before leaving.Mya's birth experience has allowed her to become more vulnerable. She confided in her husband and parents that she was not okay and leaned into them for support. She shared the term NICU PTSD and the effects it can have on new parents. Mya had to face the reality that her child might not come home. Therapy was her saving grace to cope with anxiety and concerns about Aria.From her own experience, Mya is creating a virtual safe space for moms to connect. Advising new parents as a trained doula Mya has developed a list of tips for expectant families. Start with researching providers, hire a doula to support you and prepare you for birth, learn about the NICU facility in the hospital,  and hire a lactation consultant that makes you feel comfortable. You can connect with more of Mya's journey and support offerings here. Resources:Saul’s Light | New Orleans-based nonprofit that provides support and community to families with babies in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).March of Dimes | education, research, support & advocacy for moms and babiesSilvie Bells |  nonprofit organization that provides care packages with heart rate & oxygen monitors to medically fragile NICU babies

Dr. Nicole Carter founded HUES Women's Advocacy Institute to train Women of Color as health and wellness advocates to support other Women of Color in self-efficacy and advocacy. Her work stems from a personal experience managing three autoimmune disorders and connecting with her college students about their shared health concerns.She took on the responsibility of helping the students learn how to navigate health systems. The organic relationships built with the college students were the catalysts in creating the institute.Dr. Carter steers the focus beyond changing patient behaviors by addressing the actions of medical providers. Their provider-based institute teaches medical professionals how to provide inclusive, equitable care that centers on the history and lives of Black, Indigenous, and Women of Color.HUES was founded in the Summer of 2022; they have hit the ground running by garnering support and buy-in from the community. The intention is to continue hosting live events and growing their institute participants. One of their initiatives is the Blooming Circle of Advocates. The idea is that a flower blooms from one gene to help it bloom. It can take just one person to advocate for you or listen to you and change the trajectory of your care. Care should be intentional and thoughtful, which is why HUES delivers education for providers and care seekers.Resources:HUES | women's health advocacy institute Queens Village | supportive community of powerful Black women coming together to improve Black infant mortality from the ground up

High school sweethearts Elizabeth and Jose Luis started to build their family shortly after marriage. There was no family history of infertility, but after many conversations within their circle, they felt it was worth starting a family as soon as possible. After learning more about ovulation tracking, they were expecting their first child without any challenges. Thankfully the internet didn’t let them down the way her provider did by telling her to try to conceive and come to her in a year if it didn’t work.Elizabeth recalls having some fatigue early in the pregnancy. And overall felt like she had a happy, energized pregnancy. Exercising during pregnancy felt good, simply moving her body. Recognizing limitations on her body helped her stay in tune with herself.Fear of birth was built up by not knowing enough about the process - education helped release this fear. They took childbirth education and prenatal yoga together, which also helped them bond in the experience.When they arrived at the hospital for labor, Elizabeth started to feel the cascade of interventions taking away her voice. She felt disconnected from her body after receiving an epidural. The pushing stage was long, three hours long. The feelings of joy she expected when her daughter arrived earthside were replaced with relief. It was over. Their nursing journey started as painful as the baby had a lip tie. Elizabeth didn’t feel equipped with proper knowledge of breastfeeding and pumping. Their discharge felt overwhelming, and they would go home with a crying baby with minimal support. They hired three different lactation counselors and endured two lip tie procedures. Elizabeth was determined to have a nursing relationship with her daughter, and she did.Elizabeth wanted something different for their second birth as she recalled her first pregnancy. This time she was diagnosed with gestational diabetes, which pushed her to make some health and nutrition changes as she worked through the initial shame she felt from the diagnosis. Sharing her diagnosis with friends and other birthing people helped her work through the emotions as others shared that they had endured the same. They hired a doula to provide additional support for managing the pregnancy and labor.Labor was spontaneous, and she managed the contractions at home in a way that felt good and empowering. She isolated herself as labor progressed. Jose Luis was more engaged during labor as he found his role this time. They would arrive at the hospital already 9.5 cm dilated with a cervical lip. She had created an environment to stay connected to her body with music and utilizing an eye mask during contractions. Elizabeth maintained her voice throughout her hospital experience. She asked questions and spoke up when she needed help. They welcomed their second daughter less than an hour after arriving at the hospital feeling joyful and empowered.Youtube & Instagram Recommendations from Elizabeth:Robyn Compton - gestational diabetes dietitianYour Badass Natural Birth - childbirth educationThe Pelvic Docs - pelvic health supportNurse ZabeBodyFit by AmyNourish Move LoveSara Beth YogaResources:Kellymom | provides evidence-based breastfeeding and parenting information to both professionals and parentsAZ Breastfed Babies | international board certified lactation consultants providing in person and virtual consults located in ArizonaReal Food for Gestational Diabetes by Lily Nichols | book providing effective alternatives to the conventional nutrition approachThe Birth Partner | a complete guide to childbirth for dads, partners, doulas, and all other labor companionsNatural Hospital Birth |a guide for navigating the hospital setting with minimal birth interventionsThe Birth Hour Podcast | birth stories and pregnancy resourcesBirthful Podcast | podcast talking to perinatal pros and new parents to inform your intuitionBuilt to Birth | online childbirth education

*We recommend listening to this episode in two parts, there is so much to learn from Janelle & Mivon’s story, and we hope you take the time and space to connect to all the intricacies of it*Janelle & Mivon perfectly timed their conception to align with their wedding day. They were able to share their pregnancy with their wedding guests as a sweet surprise.The early stages of pregnancy were plagued with exhaustion and food aversions. Her midwife reminded her that the work of growing a baby was intense. This allowed Janelle to give herself grace for what she had considered “laziness.” Aligning their spirituality with their birth and parenting goals with the support of a spiritual doula helped them feel ready and calm.After preparing for months through education, optimizing their physical health, and mental preparation, labor started one night, as it often does. A quiet moment of solitude brought Janelle gently into labor land as she practiced her breathing and tracked her contractions in the darkness. Eventually, they made it to the birthing center to determine progress and the next steps. Mivon, Janelle, and her mom started to create a peaceful environment and managed consistent contractions, and progressed through early labor. Time passed, and Janelle fell back into solitude when space allowed. During a heart rate check, the midwife captured a heart deceleration, and the baby's heart recovered quickly. More time passed, but her dilation had not changed, accompanied by another heart deceleration. The difficult conversation about the possibility of a hospital transfer was necessary. The midwife felt confident that the baby was ok and encouraged movement. Mivon and Janelle’s mother started to feel uncertain about their plans to stay at the birthing center. Janelle felt the shifts in the room. She trusted her intuition and stuck to the plan, and trusted in the midwife and Janelle. Prayer and shifting through position changes led to active labor and no more decelerations. Mivon’s hands would be the first to touch Baby Zara as Janelle pushed her out. Skin-to-skin started immediately with Janelle as they welcomed their child and the flood of emotions that would ensue.Baby Zara would come earthside on her late uncle’s birthday, making her entry a blessing and a tribute. The term labor is fitting as the work for her to get here was intentional and intense.They have had a great breastfeeding relationship and are managing cloth diapering. Work/life balance needs pushed Janelle to quit her job. Mivon quit his job, too, fostering happiness and creating the family life they desired. They were able to find new positions that met their individual and family needs. Janelle remembers the highs and lows of her emotions as she adjusted into motherhood. Leaning into her support system proved beneficial and has eased her concerns for her mental health. Surrendering to the flow has helped her maintain and manage continuous transitions of new parenthood.Resources:The Business of Being Born | a 2008 documentary film that explores the contemporary experience of childbirth in the United States

Celia Kelly Bouza and her husband, Terrell, welcomed two children in the last three years while managing their busy careers at ESPN. Leading up to their son Axel’s pregnancy, they were met with a PCOS diagnosis for Celia and a miscarriage. The provider was supportive and helped them manage fertility support, and their journey was off to a great start.  However, upon arriving at the hospital, the nurses didn’t provide the support she had expected. There was a series of heart decelerations and position changes that led to an emergency surgical birth (belly birth) Things happened so quickly that the staff forgot to bring her husband along. He made it just in time as the surgery commenced. Due to meconium aspiration, there was a delay in bonding due to breathing issues, and was transported to a local children’s hospital, his father went with him. Thankfully, Celia’s best friend had been there for the labor and stayed with her. Celia was transferred to the same hospital after 12 hours of waiting. Their nursing journey started with pumping and delivering colostrum to the NICU.After fertility challenges conceiving the first child, Celia and Terrell had no problems when they decided to expand their family again. Celia decided to hire a doula for additional support for her second pregnancy. She had experienced a dismissive provider about her extreme nausea early on, prompting her to change the medical team. Celia found her doula Whitley after a quick Instagram search. Whitley was forthcoming about her inexperience with VBAC as she met with Celia and offered her referrals to additional doulas. However, Celia felt they were the perfect fit due to her humility and their instant connection. This pregnancy through a few curve balls as they managed placenta previa, a slight increase in protein in the urine, and a couple of high blood pressure reads. The placenta previa would resolve itself but the other two issues led to an induction that triggered PTSD from her first birth experience.  Celia, Terrell, and Whitley arrived at the hospital for the induction. They were armed with deep knowledge of her medical records from Axel’s birth, empowered to make informed decisions, and a strong desire to have a redemptive birth.After a rocky start, Whitley helped create an environment to help Celia relax and rest. That space of peace would be interrupted as her dilation and progress didn't match her expectations as the induction went on. The spiral started, and Celia’s mood shifted; her doula helped her recenter and reclaim her power in that moment of deep discouragement. They made some decisions about pausing the Pitocin and starting an epidural. The epidural placement did not go as expected. The anesthesiologist denied her reality when she told him it wasn’t working. She effectively banned him from her care team. The epidural was fixed, and she started to feel relief. Celia got her redemption by way of VBAC; despite the baby having a “true knot” and meconium present in the amniotic fluid, there were no complications. Celia was also able to find a space in healing about the loss of her mother in the same hospital she had just given birth in. A true story of redemption that has allowed her to feel a sense of wholeness. Resources:Nubeing Doula Services | childbirth education and doula services in the Greater Hartford area

Intentional family planning set up Deborah Woodson and her husband, Mike, for an empowering journey. She started eating healthier and working out before they started trying. YouTube offered helpful insight about ovulation, and they conceived soon afterward. Homebirth was top of mind, but they were in a relocation transition, so they started care with an OB. After Deborah interviewed a few midwives, she landed on one that clicked with her, Grand Midwife Claudia Booker. They would continue care with both providers to cover all the possibilities. Meanwhile, she still needed to get her husband on board with the idea of home birth. Watching documentaries and reading articles about birth and, specifically, Black birth experiences helped bring the two of them in step with home birth planning.Early morning bathroom trips hinted that early labor would start soon. However, after some nausea and a walk, the body shifts calmed down. Deborah’s mom was there and shared that she believed labor would start that day as she managed her stomach pains. Her mom was right, Deborah would lose her mucus plug that night, and intense contractions began. Her midwife advised that she rest and to contact her when things picked up. Deborah fell into labor land and frequently retreated within herself. Their baby girl arrived before the midwife. However, her husband, mother, and sister were present in the home. Shock kept her frozen as she waited for her midwife’s care. Mike held their daughter, sobbing with joy.Deborah’s key takeaway from her first birth was learning that she could rely on her body. She became more aware of the intricacies of her body and how it changed. She felt good physically in the immediate postpartum period.Less than two years after their daughter's birth, their family expanded again. There was an unexpected shift in care providers as they learned they had lost their midwife after a hard-fought battle with cancer. The loss deeply hurt Deborah; grief showed up as she had to find another midwife. She had grown close to Claudia and was accustomed to her no-nonsense approach to care that she needed. Eventually, she connected with a birth center to establish care while she searched for a homebirth midwife. She found a midwife that knew Claudia and that was comforting her.Deborah struggled with the concept of expansive love for multiple children. The pregnancy was uneventful and without physical challenges. Deborah's hyperawareness about her body helped her know that her baby had shifted to a breech position. Her midwife helped her flip the baby through skillful maneuvering. Labor was a lot more painful as they discovered during the pushing phase he was malpositioned in  LOT (Left Occiput Transverse). Once he was delivered, her baby was calm; the family bonded comfortably in their home.Her second birth has helped her release the need to control and embrace flexibility. Parenting two young children comes with the need for patience and understanding of their individual needs.