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UID:10002472-1776756600-1776801600@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:LGBTQIA+ Morning Meditation
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/lgbtqia-morning-meditation/2026-04-21/
LOCATION:Virtual Event
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T130000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033212
CREATED:20251027T151632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T151632Z
UID:10002733-1776772800-1776776400@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Chair Yoga
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/chair-yoga/2026-04-21/
LOCATION:Virtual Event
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T133000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251021T171043Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251021T171043Z
UID:10001200-1776774600-1776778200@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Multiple Myeloma Cancer Support Group
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/multiple-myeloma-cancer-support-group/2026-04-21/
LOCATION:Smith Center For Healing and the Arts\, 1632 U Street NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20009\, United States
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T183000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251021T151942Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251021T163850Z
UID:10000615-1776790800-1776796200@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Grieving Together: A 6- Week Series
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/grieving-together-a-6-week-series/2026-04-21/
LOCATION:Smith Center For Healing and the Arts\, 1632 U Street NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20009\, United States
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T191500
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251027T161346Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T161346Z
UID:10004263-1776794400-1776798900@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Gentle PM Yoga
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/gentle-pm-yoga-2/2026-04-21/
LOCATION:Virtual Event
CATEGORIES:Fitness,Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260422
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260423
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20250715T172859Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250715T172859Z
UID:10000489-1776816000-1776902399@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Wellness Wednesdays at Esplanade at Aventura
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/wellness-wednesdays-at-esplanade-at-aventura/2026-04-22/
LOCATION:Esplanade at Aventura\, 19505 Biscayne Blvd\, Miami\, FL\, 33180\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fitness,Health & Wellness,Mental Health
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Wellness-Wednesdays-at-Esplanade-at-Aventura.avif
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260422T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260422T163000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251027T154357Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T154357Z
UID:10002994-1776870000-1776875400@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Knitting on the Couch
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/knitting-on-the-couch/2026-04-22/
LOCATION:Virtual Event
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260422T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260422T180000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251027T154600Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T154600Z
UID:10003255-1776877200-1776880800@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:A Year of Living Mindfully
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/a-year-of-living-mindfully/2026-04-22/
LOCATION:Virtual Event
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260422T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260422T190000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251021T171552Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251021T171552Z
UID:10001261-1776880800-1776884400@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:LGBTQIA+ Cancer Support Group
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/lgbtqia-cancer-support-group/2026-04-22/
LOCATION:Smith Center For Healing and the Arts\, 1632 U Street NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20009\, United States
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260423T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260423T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251022T154041Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251022T154041Z
UID:10001825-1776942000-1776945600@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Lung Cancer Support Group
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/lung-cancer-support-group/2026-04-23/
LOCATION:Smith Center For Healing and the Arts\, 1632 U Street NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20009\, United States
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260423T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T160000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20260327T154928Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T154928Z
UID:10004937-1776945600-1777132800@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Alter Dementia Summit
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/alter-dementia-summit/
LOCATION:Impact Church\, 2323 Sylvan Road\, East Point\, GA\, 30344\, United States
CATEGORIES:Health & Wellness,Men,Music,Senior Health,Women
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Alter-Dementia.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260423T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260423T142000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251027T154818Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T154818Z
UID:10003516-1776949200-1776954000@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Energy Balancing
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/energy-balancing/2026-04-23/
LOCATION:Virtual Event
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260423T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260423T203000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251027T145418Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T145418Z
UID:10002009-1776970800-1776976200@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Healing Circle for Gay Men with Prostate Cancer
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/healing-circle-for-gay-men-with-prostate-cancer/2026-04-23/
LOCATION:Smith Center For Healing and the Arts\, 1632 U Street NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20009\, United States
CATEGORIES:Men,Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260425
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260426
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251017T154450Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251017T154450Z
UID:10000588-1777075200-1777161599@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:A Walk at the Zoo
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/a-walk-at-the-zoo/
CATEGORIES:Fitness,Health & Wellness
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/a-walk-at-the-zoo.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260425T070000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260425T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20260113T213405Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260113T213405Z
UID:10004678-1777100400-1777118400@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Black Men's Wellness Day - Houston
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/black-mens-wellness-day-houston/
LOCATION:3000 Wheeler Ave\, 3000 Wheeler Ave\, Houston\, TX\, 77004\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fitness,Health & Wellness,Men,Women
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/https___cdn.evbuc_.com_images_1173417323_2653303318121_1_original.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251021T171855Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251021T171855Z
UID:10001341-1777107600-1777118400@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Nueva Vida Grupo de Apoyo (en  Español)
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/nueva-vida-grupo-de-apoyo-en-espanol/2026-04-25/
LOCATION:Smith Center For Healing and the Arts\, 1632 U Street NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20009\, United States
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T140000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20260114T155733Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T155733Z
UID:10004688-1777107600-1777125600@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Strength in The City Festival (Miami)
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/strength-in-the-city-festival-miami/
LOCATION:Carousel Club\, 901 South Federal Highway\, Hallandale Beach\, FL\, 33009\, United States
CATEGORIES:Festival/Market,Fitness,Health & Wellness
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Strength-in-the-city-Flyer.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Strength in The City":MAILTO:community@strengthinthecity.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251027T155101Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T155101Z
UID:10003778-1777111200-1777118400@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Painting for Life
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/painting-for-life/2026-04-25/
LOCATION:Virtual Event
CATEGORIES:Art,Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260425T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260425T130000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20260114T145001Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T145001Z
UID:10004685-1777111200-1777122000@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:SisCare Women's Health Fair
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/siscare-womens-health-fair/
LOCATION:MidTown Collaboration Center\, 1974 East 66th Street\, Cleveland\, OH\, 44103\, United States
CATEGORIES:Health & Wellness,Women
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/SisCare-Flyer.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Stilletto Boss Foundation":MAILTO:support@stilettobossfoundation.net
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T140000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20260226T151849Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260226T151849Z
UID:10004833-1777111200-1777125600@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:African American Community Roundtable of Howard County Health Expo
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/african-american-community-roundtable-of-howard-county-health-expo/
LOCATION:Howard Community College – Galleria Hall\, 5600 Faculty Drive\, Columbia\, MD\, 21044\, United States
CATEGORIES:Health & Wellness
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=application/pdf:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/AACR-HEALTH-EXPO_SavetheDate-1.pdf
ORGANIZER;CN="African American Community Roundtable of Howard County":MAILTO:aacrhoward@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T130000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20260127T200629Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T200804Z
UID:10004719-1777114800-1777122000@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Brooklyn Heart to Heart Health Resource Fair
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/brooklyn-heart-to-heart-health-resource-fair/
LOCATION:Central Library\, 10 Grand Army Plaza\, Brooklyn\, NY\, 11238\, United States
CATEGORIES:Health & Wellness
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/image.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T170000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20260318T193847Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T193847Z
UID:10004912-1777118400-1777136400@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Drew Hamilton Community Wellness Fair
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/drew-hamilton-community-wellness-fair/
LOCATION:Drew Hamilton Community Center\, 220 West 143rd Street\, New York\, NY\, 10030\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fitness,Food & Culture,Health & Wellness,Men,Mental Health,Women
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Drew-Hamilton-Community-Wellness-Fair.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260425T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260425T193000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20260415T132058Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260417T125047Z
UID:10004984-1777138200-1777145400@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Nourish the Night! - An Intimate Dinner Party for the Ulcerative Colitis Community
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/nourish-the-night-2/2026-04-25/
LOCATION:Private\, Shared Upon RSVP Confirmation\, Private\, Shared Upon RSVP Confirmation
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/registration-page-5.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260426T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260426T170000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20260115T181137Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T181137Z
UID:10004694-1777204800-1777222800@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:The Pursuit of Happiness Health & Wellness Festival
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/the-pursuit-of-happiness-health-wellness-festival/
CATEGORIES:Festival/Market,Food & Culture,Health & Wellness
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Pursuit-of-Happiness-Health-Wellness-Festival-Flyer.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="The Pursuit of Happiness Health & Wellness Festival":MAILTO:1healthevent@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260426T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260426T190000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20260304T191243Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T203802Z
UID:10004858-1777208400-1777230000@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Black on the Block DC
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/black-on-the-block-dc/
LOCATION:Nationals Park\, 1500 South Capitol St SE\, Washington\, DC\, 20003\, United States
CATEGORIES:Festival/Market,Food & Culture,Mixer / Networking,Music,NOWINCLUDED
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Black-on-the-block.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260427T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260427T123000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251027T151139Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T151139Z
UID:10002212-1777289400-1777293000@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:The Mindful Cancer Journey
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/the-mindful-cancer-journey/2026-04-27/
LOCATION:Virtual Event
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260427T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260427T193000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251021T154614Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251021T163626Z
UID:10000901-1777312800-1777318200@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Loss of a Parent to Cancer Support Group
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/loss-of-a-parent-to-cancer-support-group/2026-04-27/
LOCATION:Smith Center For Healing and the Arts\, 1632 U Street NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20009\, United States
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260428T073000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260428T200000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251027T151405Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T151405Z
UID:10002473-1777361400-1777406400@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:LGBTQIA+ Morning Meditation
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/lgbtqia-morning-meditation/2026-04-28/
LOCATION:Virtual Event
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260428T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260428T120000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251022T153615Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251022T153615Z
UID:10001703-1777374000-1777377600@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Leukemia & Lymphoma Support Group
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/leukemia-lymphoma-support-group/2026-04-28/
LOCATION:Smith Center For Healing and the Arts\, 1632 U Street NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20009\, United States
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260428T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260428T130000
DTSTAMP:20260421T033213
CREATED:20251022T212837Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251022T212837Z
UID:10001886-1777377600-1777381200@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Healing Circle for Parents with Cancer
DESCRIPTION:For many pregnant people\, building a birth team starts with the usual names: an OB-GYN\, maybe a midwife\, maybe a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if the pregnancy is higher risk. But more families are also asking another question: who will be there to support me through the labor itself\, help me process decisions\, and make sure I do not feel alone in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life? This is where doulas come in. A doula is not a replacement for a doctor or midwife.2 A doula is a trained support person who helps a pregnant person feel informed\, supported\, and cared for before\, during\, and after birth.2 In a country facing a maternal mortality crisis\, that kind of support should not feel like an extra. It should feel like part of a larger strategy for safer\, more human-centered care. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What A Doula Is\, In Plain Language				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									A doula is a trained professional who provides nonmedical support during pregnancy\, labor\, birth\, and sometimes the postpartum period.2 That support can be emotional\, physical\, educational\, and practical. For a birthing person\, a doula might: Help parents think through birth preferencesPrepare questions for their care teamUse comfort measures during laborUnderstand what is happening in the roomHelp parents feel less overwhelmed during a stressful birthing experience								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									It’s important to note that a doula does not perform surgery\, deliver the baby\, diagnose medical conditions\, or replace clinical care.2 That is the role of the OB-GYN\, certified nurse-midwife\, midwife\, or other licensed clinician. But a doula can be part of the care ecosystem around that clinical team.2 That is where the idea of 360 care becomes important. Pregnancy care is strongest when it is not built around one person doing everything. An OB-GYN or midwife handles the medical side. A doula can help with labor support\, education\, emotional steadiness\, and continuity. Friends\, family\, lactation support\, mental health support\, and postpartum care can all add to that circle. When these pieces work together\, a mother is more likely to feel held\, informed\, and supported through birth rather than simply managed through it. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How Doulas May Help Improve Birth Outcomes				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									The case for doulas is not only emotional. There is evidence that doula support can be associated with better birth outcomes.3 Research shows that doula support provides a “triple threat” of benefits: Physical: Shorter labor times and a lower risk of C-sections or premature births.3Mental: Lower levels of anxiety and stress for the birthing parent.3Long-term Health: Higher success rates with breastfeeding\, particularly for low-income women\, including a faster start to milk production and staying with it weeks after delivery.3								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									That does not mean a doula guarantees a certain kind of birth or prevents every complication.3 Birth outcomes are shaped by many factors\, including clinical risk\, access to care\, hospital practices\, chronic conditions\, and the quality of the medical team. But doula support can be one meaningful part of a safer and more supported birth experience.3 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why Doulas Matter So Much For Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									This conversation is especially important for Black mothers because the maternal health crisis is not affecting every group equally. In the United States\, Black women are still far more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women.1 For many Black families\, the search for a doula is not just about wanting extra comfort. It is also about wanting someone in the room who can provide consistent support\, help reduce isolation\, and contribute to a birth experience that feels more respectful and affirming.2  That does not mean the answer to maternal mortality is simply “hire a doula.” The bigger picture still includes equitable hospitals\, better postpartum care\, accountable systems\, paid leave\, transportation\, insurance coverage\, and respectful treatment. But doulas can be an important part of the larger health strategy that helps moms thrive through pregnancy\, birth\, and beyond. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Why 360 Care Matters In Pregnancy				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									No one person is supposed to carry the whole pregnancy experience alone. An OB-GYN may manage prenatal care\, ultrasounds\, medications\, and hospital delivery. A midwife may support physiologic birth and provide another model of pregnancy care\, depending on the person’s needs and setting. A doula can offer continuity\, emotional support\, labor comfort\, education\, and postpartum check-ins. Lactation specialists\, mental health professionals\, pelvic floor therapists\, community health workers\, and family support can also matter. This is what 360 care looks like: not choosing one support person over another\, but building a team that addresses the medical\, emotional\, social\, and practical sides of birth. That kind of care matters even more in communities where people may already be navigating bias\, mistrust\, transportation barriers\, or inconsistent access to high-quality services. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					5 Websites To Help You Find A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									1. National Black Doulas AssociationThe National Black Doulas Association is one of the strongest places to start\, especially for families looking for culturally aligned care. The organization describes itself as a Black and BIPOC doula directory and training organization\, and its site highlights a professional database of skilled\, trained\, and certified doulas ready to support families as part of the overall birth team. This can be especially valuable for Black families who want support that feels affirming\, culturally aware\, and rooted in birth justice\, not just logistics. 2. DONA InternationalDONA International has a searchable directory that lets families find DONA-certified doulas by location and specialty. The organization also encourages families to think through what matters most before hiring\, including whether cultural\, spiritual\, or language alignment is important. This site can be useful for people who want a large\, established certification network and a straightforward way to search by needs and geography. 3. Ancient Song Doula ServicesAncient Song is a birth justice organization focused on ensuring that low-income Black and Latinx pregnant\, postpartum\, and parenting people have access to high-quality\, holistic doula care regardless of ability to pay. In addition to advocacy and training\, Ancient Song provides direct doula services. For readers who care deeply about community-based\, justice-centered care\, Ancient Song is an important resource to know\, especially because its mission explicitly centers access for low-income people of color. 4. DoulaMatchDoulaMatch is one of the most practical search tools because it includes large numbers of birth and postpartum doulas\, availability calendars\, fees\, experience details\, certifications\, and client reviews. The site says it has connected families and doulas since 2008 and includes thousands of listings\, along with tools for searching by availability and special populations\, including Black doulas. This can be especially helpful if you want to compare several options quickly and see who is available around your due date. 5. BornbirBornbir is built more like a matching platform. The company says families can answer a few questions about their needs and be matched with birth and postpartum doulas\, including options for virtual and in-person support. The site also highlights that users can compare pricing and responses from doulas.  This may work well for someone who does not want to search one profile at a time and would rather use a more guided matching process. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					How To Choose The Right Doula For You				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Finding a doula is not only about picking the first person who shows up in a search result. It is about finding someone whose presence feels right for your pregnancy.2 Start by asking yourself what kind of support you want most. Do you want someone focused on labor support? Postpartum care? Both? Do you want someone with hospital birth experience\, home birth experience\, or experience supporting first-time parents? Is cultural alignment important to you? Language? Faith background? Communication style? Defining priorities up front can help narrow the search in a meaningful way. After you set your priorities\, now it’s time to interview a few doulas. Ask how they support clients during labor\, how they work with partners\, how many prenatal and postpartum visits are included\, what happens if they are unavailable when labor starts\, and whether they have experience supporting families with your specific concerns. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					What To Ask Before You Hire A Doula				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Here are a few questions you can bring to your interview that may help to bring you clarity: What kind of births do you most often support?What services are included in your fee?How do you support partners during labor?What is your backup plan if you are at another birth?Do you offer postpartum support?Have you worked with families who wanted care that felt culturally aligned or trauma-informed?Do you offer sliding-scale options\, payment plans\, or virtual support?								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									These questions matter because “doula” is a broad term. Training\, style\, availability\, and pricing can vary. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Affordability\, Access\, And What To Keep In Mind				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Cost is real. In some markets\, doula care can be expensive\, and that alone can push families away from support they might otherwise want. GoodRx notes that birth doula pricing in some areas can range from around $1\,200 to $2\,500 or more\, depending on services and experience.4 That is why it is worth asking about sliding scales\, payment plans\, virtual options\, community-based programs\, local grants\, or whether a hospital or nonprofit in your area has partnerships with doulas.4 Some organizations are explicitly trying to close that gap. Ancient Song\, for example\, centers access regardless of ability to pay. Affordability is not a side note here. It is part of the maternal health story. When support only becomes available to families who can easily pay out of pocket\, the people who may benefit most can be left out.4 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					Self-Advocacy Language For Readers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									As you start designing your birth plan\, we want to make sure you’re equipped with knowledge and language. At your next doctor’s appointment\, try using these words: “I want a doula as part of my birth team\, and I want support that feels culturally aligned and respectful.” You can also say: “Can you help me understand how a doula could fit alongside my OB-GYN or midwife?” If cost is a barrier\, try saying: “I am looking for support during labor and postpartum\, but cost matters. Do you offer payment plans\, a sliding scale\, or virtual support?” And if you are talking with your medical team\, you can say: “I want everyone on my birth team to be on the same page\, including my doula”. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					A Call To Action For Expecting Black Mothers				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									If you are pregnant or planning for birth\, this is your reminder that support is not a luxury. It is part of care. Inside the NOWINCLUDED app\, you can find trusted\, culturally aware health education that helps you ask better questions\, build a stronger birth team\, and better understand the systems shaping maternal health in the United States. Use it to prepare for pregnancy\, think through what kind of support you want\, and take one practical step toward a birth experience that feels safer\, more informed\, and more supported. 								\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n					References				\n				\n					\n				\n		\n					\n				\n				\n									Njoku\, A.\, Evans\, Marian\, Nimo-Sefah\, L.\, & Bailey\, J. (2023). Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States. Healthcare | An Open Access Journal from MDPI. doi:10.3390/healthcare11030438Mallick\, L. M.\, Thoma\, M. E.\, & Shenassa\, E. D. (2022). The role of doulas in respectful care for communities of color and Medicaid recipients. Birth – Wiley Online Library. doi:10.1111/birt.12655Sobczak\, A.\, Taylor\, L.\, Solomon\, S.\, Ho\, J.\, & Kemper\, S. (2023). The Effect of Doulas on Maternal and Birth Outcomes: A Scoping Review. Cureus. doi:10.7759/cureus.39451Marsh\, T. (2024\, October 24). The Doula Divide: How Cost and Other Barriers Leave Many Mothers Without Doula Birth Support. Retrieved from GoodRx: https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/the-doula-divide?srsltid=AfmBOoqC7JdFWDSwVQI2SF4uX83AlN6_0PveXKftYDLwCziEgLFEBXUR
URL:https://nowincluded.com/event/healing-circle-for-parents-with-cancer/2026-04-28/
LOCATION:Smith Center For Healing and the Arts\, 1632 U Street NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20009\, United States
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR