Program ModelsFarmworker Doula Program
The Farmworker Doula Program trains experienced Promotoras as Doulas, or birth attendants, to guide and support farmworker women through pregnancy, childbirth and care of a newborn. Farmworker women and other medically underserved women are often unfamiliar with the health care system and hospital procedures. Prenatal and post-partum care is often sporadic, with many missed appointments due to transportation problems, misunderstandings and a lack of appropriate social support. The Doulas remove barriers to prenatal care, provide emotional and educational support to pregnant women and their partners and support women during the birth process. They also assist with translation at medical visits and explain cultural differences to health care providers.
"This is how women have been giving birth in Mexico always - with another woman around to just help them so they won't be afraid. I think my grandmother even used to help women in the village where my family came from. If she was alive I think she would be very surprised to know that I am doing it here in America."
-Sonia Perez, Doula and Promotora
"People think that the farmworker Doulas work for me and help me. But the truth is just the opposite. Really it's the pregnant woman and the Doula doing all the work. I just come in at the time of birth to work for and help the farmworker Doula."
-Jack Schneider, MD, Sparta Health Center, Sparta, MI
Results
Four Doulas supported 16 pregnant women during the 2002 migrant season in Michigan. They provided one-on-one consultation to 257 women and led group sessions on preventing birth defects with 390 women and girls. Women said the Doulas helped them initiate prenatal care (88 percent received prenatal care) and overcome their fears about delivering at the hospital.
LEARN MORE about how our programs are improving health outcomes.
Materials
Free and low-cost materials to support Farmworker Doula Programs are coming soon!
Profile
Mary Jane Velasquez, Doula and Promotora
A Story from the Program
One woman's greatest fear was that her baby would be taken from her and put up for adoption because she could not read or speak English. She had heard stories of how people like her were tricked into giving their babies away. Her fear kept her from seeking prenatal care until her Doula intervened. Through the trust established with her Doula, the woman overcame her fear and never missed another appointment. She gave birth to a healthy baby at the hospital and was tearfully grateful for the support her Doula provided.
