I became a doula after learning about the maternal and infant mortality crises in the US and specifically in Chicago. My first birth worker gig was as a community-based doula for women with Substance Use Disorders at a treatment clinic. It was amazing (and amazingly hard) to work for people on Medicaid, facing so much mistreatment by the medical system.  I was privileged to learn from many clients about the complex intersections of race, class, medical history, and substance use. In this work, I became a trauma informed provider, took anti-racist doula trainings, and learned more about serving queer parents as a bisexual, childless doula myself.  Unfortunately it was very hard work with little institutional support, and after three years I found myself burnt out.

Now as a private doula, I am committed to upholding those values in my practice. I currently volunteer with Chicago Volunteer Doulas to be able to serve people who can’t afford a full doula rate. (When I have clients who pay my full price, they contribute to my ability to do volunteer work- if that’s you, thank you!) 

This article from Evidence Based Birth on “Anti-Racism in Healthcare and Birthwork” points out, “what we don’t know can hurt us — and hurt others”. So I am committed to reading (and listening, and watching) resources on the history of obstetric violence towards people of color and queer people. For my other white doulas and birthers out there, that article is rich with resources! Hit me up if you want to read/reflect together.

I recognize that equity means equal outcomes, not necessarily equal treatment. I offer extra prenatal visits to folks who experience adverse outcomes or medical stigma in order to take a little bite out of the inequity in our medical system.

Birthwork is also a tradition that has been historically kept by women of color. As a white doula and future midwife, I try to examine where my information comes from, and give credit to the cultures and birth workers who gave me that knowledge. I also work hard to not use any practices that are sacred to cultures I’m not part of. 

I am committed to a lifelong journey of self reflection and improvement. Please don’t hesitate to contact me with suggestions for how my practice can become more equitable and anti-racist.

With Love and Warmth,

Carly Ann