Community Doula Workshop Series

Empower yourself and connect with other expectant and new mothers in a sage, supportive space. Our Doula Workshop series covers essential prenatal and postnatal topics, providing education, emotional support, and social connection for women in our community, focusing on the unique challenges faced in Detroit, MI.

Join us the second Wednesday of every month. We will be covering prenatal topics in January, March, May, July, September, and November. Postnatal topics will be covered in February, April, June, August, October, and December. When you register, you will receive important updates about the specific dates you've chosen.

Important Workshop Topics for Underserved Women in Detroit, MI:

• Racial Equity in Care: Understanding and addressing the maternal and infant mortality disparities that disproprotionately affect Black and Indigenous women in Detroit. We'll discuss self-advocacy and culturally competent care.
• Access to Resources: Navigating the complex healthcare systems, securing adequate prenatal care, and connecting with community services like WIC, food assistance, housing support, and reliable transportation.
• Mental Health and Wellness: Screening for and addressing perinatal mental health challenges (like anxiety and depression) and the impacts of systemic stress and intergenerational trauma on maternal health.
• Labor and Delivery Self-Advocacy: Practical strategies for communicating with healthcare providers, understanding medical procedures (like Cesarean rates), and promoting informed consent to improve birth experiences.
• Postpartum and Infant Care: Critical support for the fourth trimester, including breastfeeding/chestfeeding support, safe sleep practices, and recognizing urgent maternal warning signs to prevent complications.

This special series is hosted by Penny Love Fitness. Email msummers@detroitpubliclibrary.org if you have questions!