The Whole & Complete Woman

Empowered Birth: Holistic Care & Black Maternal Health | The Whole & Complete Woman | Melissa Mitchell Certified Doula

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In this episode of The Whole and Complete Woman, Dr. Alicia Newsome sits down with certified doula and perinatal educator Melissa Mitchell to explore holistic care during pregnancy and postpartum. 

 

Melissa shares her journey from medical school dreams to becoming a doula, emphasizing the power of advocacy, education, and spiritual support for birthing women. Together, they discuss the importance of postpartum care, setting boundaries, and addressing the Black maternal health crisis. 

 

Learn practical tips for creating a birth plan, advocating for yourself during labor, and navigating the emotional and physical demands of motherhood. Whether you're a mom-to-be or supporting one, this conversation is full of wisdom for nurturing both body and soul.

 

 

Key Takeaways:
  • Creating a Birth Plan: Why it's essential and how it empowers you to advocate for the birth experience you desire.
  • Postpartum Care: The importance of the critical first 40 days after birth and how to nurture yourself physically and emotionally.
  • Black Maternal Health: Addressing disparities in care and advocating for better outcomes for Black women in healthcare settings.
  • Holistic Wellness: Incorporating breathwork, Yoni steams, and sound healing to support mothers during and after pregnancy.
  • Setting Boundaries: How to protect your energy and set limits on visitors and external pressures during postpartum recovery

    • Chapters

     

    00:00 Empowering Women Through Health and Wellness

    01:58 Melissa Mitchell: A Journey into Doula Work

    04:13 Challenges in Maternal Health

    06:27 The Importance of Postpartum Care

    09:15 Setting Boundaries as a New Mom

    14:24 Addressing Racial Disparities in Maternal Health

    17:42 Integrating Emotional, Physical, and Spiritual Support

    19:30 Misconceptions About Doulas

    20:57 Advocating for Yourself in Healthcare

    24:15 Choosing the Right Healthcare Provider

    33:30 Holistic Wellness Tips for Women

    36:32 The Sacredness of Sexuality and Creativity

     

    CONNECT WITH MELISSA:

    https://www.instagram.com/sunshinemamadoula/

    https://www.sunshinemamadoulacare.com/book-online

     

    REGISTER FOR THE PCOS RESET WORKSHOP

    https://www.draliciahormones.com

     

    SEE DR. ALICIA NEWSOME ON TV

    https://youtu.be/uMUmgzkSeMU?feature=shared



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    health, wellness, maternal health, postpartum care, doula, women empowerment, racial disparities, self-advocacy, holistic wellness, emotional support, Women’s health & wellness, Black maternal health, Natural pregnancy support, Postpartum care tips, Doula birth plan guidance, Holistic wellness for moms, Work-life balance for women

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    The Whole & Complete WomanBy Dr. Alicia Newsome