We are excited to introduce the Healthy Start Doula program: Guidance, Resource, Openhearted, Wisdom. These principles form the core of our program, guiding our interactions with the women we serve.
What is a doula?
A Doula is a non-medical professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to mothers before, during, and shortly after childbirth. Our dedicated team of Doulas are passionate about ensuring that every woman feels supported, informed, and empowered throughout her pregnancy and birthing process.
Our doulas are here to ensure that women have the tools, knowledge, and support they need to make informed decisions about their health and birthing options. Whether it’s accompanying a prenatal appointment, providing comfort measures during labor, or offering postpartum guidance and support, our doulas are dedicated to creating a nurturing environment.
Healthy Start clients, who have limited emotional and physical support during their pregnancy journey, will be able to be referred to receive Doula Care. The Coalition plans to increase the number of Healthy Start Doulas so we can serve more high-risk clients, with the ultimate goal of lowering our infant and maternal mortality rates.
Area of Focus:
*Relationships built by ongoing communication during the third trimester of pregnancy
*Prenatal educational support
*Eligibility begins between 26-31 weeks gestation
*3 prenatal home visits
*Continuous support during labor
*Support for one hour after birth
*2-3 postnatal visits to support the new mother and infant
Healthy Start’s FREE Healthy Start Doula program will primarily be for women entering their third trimester of pregnancy, preferably those connected with a home-visiting service.
If you are interested in eligibility requirements and connecting with a doula for your pregnancy, please contact our Doula Coordinator, Tanya Gonzales, at 850-833-3999 or Click here to complete our HSOW Doula Referral Form