In this episode of The Whole and Complete Woman, Dr. Alicia Newsome sits down with certified doula and perinatal educator Melissa Mitchell to explore holistic care during pregnancy and postpartum. 

Melissa shares her journey from medical school dreams to becoming a doula, emphasizing the power of advocacy, education, and spiritual support for birthing women. Together, they discuss the importance of postpartum care, setting boundaries, and addressing the Black maternal health crisis. 

Learn practical tips for creating a birth plan, advocating for yourself during labor, and navigating the emotional and physical demands of motherhood. Whether you're a mom-to-be or supporting one, this conversation is full of wisdom for nurturing both body and soul.

• Creating a Birth Plan: Why it's essential and how it empowers you to advocate for the birth experience you desire.


• Postpartum Care: The importance of the critical first 40 days after birth and how to nurture yourself physically and emotionally.


• Black Maternal Health: Addressing disparities in care and advocating for better outcomes for Black women in healthcare settings.


• Holistic Wellness: Incorporating breathwork, Yoni steams, and sound healing to support mothers during and after pregnancy.


• Setting Boundaries: How to protect your energy and set limits on visitors and external pressures during postpartum recovery

Chapters

00:00 Empowering Women Through Health and Wellness

01:58 Melissa Mitchell: A Journey into Doula Work

04:13 Challenges in Maternal Health

06:27 The Importance of Postpartum Care

09:15 Setting Boundaries as a New Mom

14:24 Addressing Racial Disparities in Maternal Health

17:42 Integrating Emotional, Physical, and Spiritual Support

19:30 Misconceptions About Doulas

20:57 Advocating for Yourself in Healthcare

24:15 Choosing the Right Healthcare Provider

33:30 Holistic Wellness Tips for Women

36:32 The Sacredness of Sexuality and Creativity

CONNECT WITH MELISSA:

https://www.instagram.com/sunshinemamadoula/

https://www.sunshinemamadoulacare.com/book-online

REGISTER FOR THE PCOS RESET WORKSHOP

https://www.draliciahormones.com

SEE DR. ALICIA NEWSOME ON TV

https://youtu.be/uMUmgzkSeMU?feature=shared

INVITE DR. ALICIA TO SPEAK

https://www.dralicianewsome.com/invite-to-speak/

Follow us on Social Media to stay connected!

📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.alicianewsome

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-alicia-newsome/

☕️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dralicianewsome

health, wellness, maternal health, postpartum care, doula, women empowerment, racial disparities, self-advocacy, holistic wellness, emotional support, Women’s health & wellness, Black maternal health, Natural pregnancy support, Postpartum care tips, Doula birth plan guidance, Holistic wellness for moms, Work-life balance for women