Martina explores the historical roots of modern obstetrics and gynecology. Dr. Joia Crear-Perry and Dr. Mimi Niles explain how flaws in medical education and research contribute to the Black birthing crisis.

Two: Roots of the Black Birthing Crisis

NATAL passes the mic to Black families to hear all about their journey to parenthood in their own words. Our second season follows four parents in rural Mississippi, Iowa and Hawaii as they birth new lives and legacies exactly where they are. Interwoven by narrative interludes, this 10-part story album features the birthworkers, medical professionals and advocates caring for Black rural families at every stage of pregnancy and beyond.

Personal Journals

Society & Culture

History

Philosophy

Places & Travel

Health & Fitness

Documentary

We head home for a final good-bye to hear how Anasia, Ciara, Erick, Shayla and more are building new legacies exactly where they are.

Chapter Ten: Returning

Alabama Birth Collective founding member, Nadia Gramby, on the sisterhood of birthwork.

Interlude: The Sisterhood

The parents adjust to life postpartum and the powerful transformations they've undergone.

Chapter Nine: Metamorphosis

Chapter Eight: The Arrival

From the physical to the emotional, all four parents navigate the highs and lows of pregnancy – and for some, even during a pandemic.

Two: Roots of the Black Birthing Crisis

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