Honoring African American Midwives: Pioneers of Compassionate Care
As we celebrate Black History Month, it is essential to recognize the profound contributions of African American midwives, both past and present, who have played a pivotal role in shaping maternal and infant health care.
Historically in Arkansas
Historically, African American midwives were pillars in their communities, especially in the rural South. In Arkansas, during times when Black women were often denied access to hospitals, these midwives provided indispensable care, ensuring safe deliveries and offering postpartum support. Their expertise and dedication were instrumental in making licensed midwifery care possible in the state.
Making History, Today in Arkansas
Today, the legacy of these trailblazers continues through the efforts of modern Black midwives and advocates who strive to improve maternal health outcomes and promote birth justice. Organizations like the Ujima Maternity Network in Arkansas are addressing the Black maternal and infant health crisis by supporting the training of Black Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs). Notably, Nicolle Fletcher and Sarita Hendrix are on the path to becoming the first Black CPMs in the state since the era of the grand midwives.
Nationally
Nationally, figures like Jennie Joseph have made significant strides in advancing midwifery care. After moving to the United States from the United Kingdom, Joseph recognized the challenges within the American maternal health system and took proactive steps to address them. In 2009, she founded the CommonSense Childbirth School of Midwifery, aiming to support women without access to obstetricians. Her efforts have been instrumental in promoting equitable maternity care.
Additionally, initiatives like birthFUND, established by , work to make midwifery care more accessible. Inspired by her own positive birthing experience at a Black-owned birthing center, Welteroth's organization has supported numerous families in accessing midwifery services, contributing to improved maternal health outcomes.
The historical legacy of Black midwifery is imbued with resilience, community support, and a commitment to nurturing holistic well-being.
As we honor these contributions during Black History Month, let us acknowledge the enduring impact of African American midwives and support ongoing efforts to ensure equitable and compassionate care for all mothers and infants.
Knowing that we are just touching the surface of your contributions, we at Birth Song Botanicals say, "Thank you for all you do to support our birth community!"
Maria Chowdhury
🙏🏽
🌿Want more?!? Check these out!🌿
- How To Prioritize Pregnancy Nutrition
- Pregnancy Sleep Survival Guide
- 3 Keys to a Healthy Pregnancy
- 3 Benefits of Herbal Pregnancy Tea to Help Prepare You for Birth
- Finding Relief from Pregnancy Insomnia
- The Ultimate Natural Pregnancy Guide
- Coping with Pregnancy Pain and Discomfort
- How to Have a Fit Pregnancy and Be Healthy
- Digestive Issues in Pregnancy
- Natural Morning Sickness Remedies
- The Long History of All-Natural Pregnancy Care
- Pregnancy Heart Word Podcast Session
- How Nettle Can Prevent Postpartum Hemorrhage
- 15 Ways to Heal After A Miscarriage
- The Difference Between a Doula and a Midwife
- Different Kinds of Doulas for Birth and Postpartum
- Hiring A Home birth Midwife Starts With An Effective Consultation
- 50 questions to ask your Midwife, OB, and Doula
- Home Birth Supplies List
- Why Home Birth is Safer Than The Hospital- For Natural Birth
- Birth Plan Template For Home Birth- Have An Empowering Birth At Home
- Cultivating Heart-Centered Decision-Making in Pregnancy and Parenting: A Guide to the Full-Body-Yes Feeling!
- 10 Ways to Plan Your Blessing Way Ceremony
- How to Induce Labor Naturally and Safely
- Cesarean Sections: Risks, Prevention, and Herbs for Recovery
- Include Your Partner And Speak the Love Languages of Birth
- Hospital Bag Checklist
- Four Healthy Habits to Start on Your Baby’s First Day
- Self Care Must Haves for Labor
- What I Wish I Knew About Breastfeeding Before Baby Was Born
- Children at Birth- Should you have your kids with you when you give birth?
- Oriana's Beautiful Home Birth Story
- How to Plan or Prevent Pregnancy
- Overcoming Mom Guilt When Having Another Baby
- What to Expect When Going Overdue
- Breastfeeding While Pregnant
- Journey into Motherhood
- 3 Pervasive Problems Pregnant & Postpartum Women Experience
- Natural Remedies for Bacterial Vaginosis BV
Remember to:
Like our Birth Song Botanicals Facebook Page
Follow Birth Song Botanicals Co. on Instagram
Read our Birth Song Botanicals Blog
Watch Birth Song Botanicals on Youtube
Listen to Birth Song Botanicals on SoundCloud
Be inspired by Birth Song Botanicals on Pinterest
