Community-Based Doulas
Programs/Projects: Community-Based Doula Project
In the fall of 2003, the Indiana Perinatal Network convened a steering group to explore the concept of a community-based doula program in Indiana.
- IPN and its partners, in collaboration with the Chicago Health Connection (CHC) are in the strategic planning phase in developing a community-based doula pilot project in Marion County. The pilot will test the effectiveness of this model for possible statewide replication. The doula project aims to improve access to care and decrease disparities in outcomes by providing enhanced outreach and support during the perinatal period.
- "Community-Based Doulas" are community health workers with additional doula training who live in the underserved community they serve and engage in extended involvement with the family.
- Community-based doulas are shown to improve access to early and regular prenatal care; improve continuity of care; increase breastfeeding and improve mother-infant bonding; reduce the rate of C-sections and epidural usage; and reduce postpartum depression.
For more information, contact Sherry Matemachani 317.951.2282.
