The average maternal mortality rate for women in the United States is higher than any other industrialized country.

In this episode, we're joined by Emily Barney to talk about how doulas can play an important role in creating a more consensual, safe, and empowering birthing experience.

This is part one of a two-part special we're calling Disparities in the Delivery Room, where we'll be unpacking the harsh realities of maternal mortality rates within the American medical system. Tune in to learn what's going on, what's being done, and how your actions can contribute to a better future. 

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How to connect with and learn more about Emily’s work:

Visit her website www.doulapurposes.com and follow her on instagram @ doulapurposes

For new parents 

Medicaid families:

If you are a resident of Nevada, are pregnant, and currently enrolled in Medicaid - birth doula services are now being offered* as a member benefit. Ask your healthcare providers for more information on how to begin the process of finding the doula that is right for you.

** Check out the news segment that Carah and Emily were a part of back in 2021**

All parents:

Local to Reno:

Thrive Wellness - Behavioral and Mental Health Services in Reno, NV (other locations in Nevada, California, and Texas)

Biggest Little Baby - Family community center for classes, groups, rentals, and shopping in Reno, NV

Northern Nevada Breastfeeding Coalition - Non-profit organization of community breastfeeding advocates, professionals, and parents

For existing and aspiring Doulas in Nevada:

If you are interested in becoming a doula or have already supported folks through labor in a non-medical role and would like to expand your scope of practice to include Medicaid families, learn how to become certified at: www.nevadacertboard.org/doula-certification/doula-certification-requirements Pregnancy/childbirth education -

Evidence Based Birth - www.evidencebasedbirth.com 

Childbirth Connection - www.childbirthconnection.org 

Spinning Babies - www.spinningbabies.com 

Film - The Business of Being Born 

American Pregnancy Association: Home birth benefits/tips   

National non-profit breastfeeding support organization - 

La Leche League - www.llli.org