Fall 2026 Black Maternal Health Awareness Campaign
Know Your Rights. Know Your Doula.
Black women in the U.S. are 2–3× more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. A trained doula changes that. Doula Lab is here to make sure every family in Southern Illinois has access to the support they deserve.
2–3×
more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes
CDC, 2023
40%
reduction in cesarean births with continuous doula support
Cochrane Review
31%
fewer low-birthweight babies born to doula-supported mothers
Journal of Perinatal Education
60%
reduction in epidural requests with doula support
Cochrane Review
Why a Doula?
A doula is a trained birth worker who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support before, during, and after childbirth. Research consistently shows that doula-supported births lead to better outcomes — fewer interventions, shorter labors, and more positive birth experiences. For Black families navigating a healthcare system that has historically failed them, a doula is more than support. They are an advocate.
Find Your DoulaContinuous Support
Unlike hospital staff who rotate shifts, your doula stays with you through your entire labor and birth.
Informed Decision-Making
Doulas help you understand your options so you can make confident, informed choices about your care.
Advocacy
Your doula speaks up for your birth preferences and ensures your voice is heard by your care team.
Postpartum Care
Support doesn't end at birth. Doulas help with newborn care, breastfeeding, and emotional recovery.
Fall 2026 Events
Join us this fall for community events focused on Black maternal health, birth equity, and perinatal wellness.
Read the Campaign Blog
Deep dives on Black maternal health, doula access, and what you can do.
What Every Black Mother Should Know Before Giving Birth
You have rights in the delivery room. Here is what every Black mother should know before she walks through those hospital doors.
Read more
The Data on Black Maternal Mortality — And What Doula Lab Is Doing About It
The numbers are stark. Here is what the data actually shows — and the concrete work Doula Lab is doing to change it.
Read more
How to Find and Afford a Doula in Southern Illinois
Cost and access remain real barriers. Here is a practical guide to finding and affording a doula in our region.
Read more
Stay Connected This Fall
Sign up to receive campaign updates, event invitations, and resources for Black families in Southern Illinois.
Share the Campaign
Help us reach more families. Share this page with your community.
#KnowYourDoula #BlackMaternalHealth #DoulaLab #BirthEquity