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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260415
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CREATED:20250715T172859Z
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UID:10000488-1776211200-1776297599@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/2026-04-15/
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:20260415T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T180000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174106
CREATED:20251027T154600Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T154600Z
UID:10003254-1776272400-1776276000@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/2026-04-15/
LOCATION:Virtual Event
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T190000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174106
CREATED:20251027T145152Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T145152Z
UID:10001948-1776276000-1776279600@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Healing Circle for Young Adults with MBC
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-young-adults-with-mbc/2026-04-15/
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:20260416T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260416T142000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174107
CREATED:20251027T154818Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T154818Z
UID:10003515-1776344400-1776349200@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/2026-04-16/
LOCATION:Virtual Event
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T120000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174107
CREATED:20251021T171855Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251021T171855Z
UID:10001340-1776502800-1776513600@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/2026-04-18/
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:20260418T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T120000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174107
CREATED:20251027T155101Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T155101Z
UID:10003777-1776506400-1776513600@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/2026-04-18/
LOCATION:Virtual Event
CATEGORIES:Art,Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T140000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174107
CREATED:20260413T200645Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260413T200757Z
UID:10004978-1776506400-1776520800@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Regional Wellness Day
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/regional-wellness-day/
LOCATION:Birmingham Crossplex\, 2337 Bessemer Rd\, Birmingham\, AL\, 35208\, United States
CATEGORIES:Health & Wellness
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/shutterstock_2553012887-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T150000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174107
CREATED:20260318T174843Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T174843Z
UID:10004910-1776506400-1776524400@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:RUSH Health & 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/rush-health-wellness-fair/
LOCATION:Bethel New Life\, 1150 North Lamon Avenue\, Chicago\, IL\, 60651\, United States
CATEGORIES:Health & Wellness
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot-2026-03-18-124651.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T170000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174107
CREATED:20260113T203141Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T143311Z
UID:10004675-1776506400-1776531600@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:All Things Cancer and Wellness 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/all-things-cancer-and-wellness-expo/
LOCATION:DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City\, 237 South Broad Street\, Philadelphia\, PA\, 19107\, United States
CATEGORIES:Health & Wellness
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/https___cdn.evbuc_.com_images_1168536363_1959311702013_1_original.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T150000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174107
CREATED:20260113T214211Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T143104Z
UID:10004686-1776510000-1776524400@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo
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/bill-pickett-invitational-rodeo/2026-04-18/1/
LOCATION:Georgia International Horse Park\, 1996 Centennial Olympic Pkwy\, Conyers\, GA\, 30013\, United States
CATEGORIES:Food & Culture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/ATL-April-Back-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T160000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174107
CREATED:20260113T204218Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260113T215902Z
UID:10004676-1776517200-1776528000@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:EmpowerMOM
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/empowermom/
LOCATION:The Gathering Spot ATL\, 384 Northyards Blvd. NW\, Atlanta\, GA\, 30313\, United States
CATEGORIES:Black Maternal Health,Health & Wellness,Mental Health,Women
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/emcare2u-empowermom-event-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T223000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174107
CREATED:20260113T214211Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T143104Z
UID:10004687-1776540600-1776551400@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo
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/bill-pickett-invitational-rodeo/2026-04-18/3/
LOCATION:Georgia International Horse Park\, 1996 Centennial Olympic Pkwy\, Conyers\, GA\, 30013\, United States
CATEGORIES:Food & Culture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/ATL-April-Back-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260419T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260419T170000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174107
CREATED:20260109T202634Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260109T202751Z
UID:10004642-1776596400-1776618000@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Holistic Health & Healing Expo (Drexel Hill\,PA)
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/holistic-health-healing-expo-drexel-hillpa/
LOCATION:The Drexelbrook\, 4700 Drexelbrook Dr\, Drexel Hill\, PA\, 19026\, United States
CATEGORIES:Festival/Market,Health & Wellness
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nowincluded.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Drexel-Hill-HHH-Expo.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260420T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260420T123000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174107
CREATED:20251027T150132Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T150132Z
UID:10002131-1776682800-1776688200@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Room for Grief
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/room-for-grief/2026-04-20/
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:20260420T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260420T123000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174107
CREATED:20251027T151139Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T151139Z
UID:10002211-1776684600-1776688200@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/2026-04-20/
LOCATION:Virtual Event
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Virtual
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260420T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260420T193000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174107
CREATED:20251021T153620Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251021T163807Z
UID:10000659-1776708000-1776713400@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY: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/cancer-support-group/2026-04-20/
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/Chicago:20260420T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260420T193000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174107
CREATED:20251021T154056Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251021T163724Z
UID:10000780-1776708000-1776713400@nowincluded.com
SUMMARY:Caregiver 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/caregiver-support-group/2026-04-20/
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:20260421T073000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T200000
DTSTAMP:20260415T174107
CREATED:20251027T151405Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T151405Z
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:20260415T174107
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:20260415T174107
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:20260415T174107
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:20260415T174107
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:20260415T174107
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:20260415T174107
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:20260415T174107
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:20260415T174107
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:20260415T174107
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:20260415T174107
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:20260415T174107
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:20260415T174107
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
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