Four years ago, my experiences as a birth doula and childbirth educator called me in a new direction. I packed up my doula books and ordered history books and my family made the cross-country trek from Utah to Pennsylvania so that I could pursue a PhD in American Studies.
Now, American Studies might not sound like it has anything to do with doula work. But it does, I promise. Because I studied the history of midwifery and childbirth in America, the Black maternal mortality crisis, and reproductive justice. My dissertation research examined people’s experiences with postpartum mood disorders and how, unfortunately, many people feel neglected by formal medical systems during the postpartum period. I wrote all about placental remedies (like encapsulated placenta) and why people find them so helpful.
Now that the degree is done, I’m excited to return to my doula work where I can combine my real-world doula experience with my research to offer Utah families compassionate doula care.
This is just a note to say hello. But stay tuned! I can’t wait to share with you what I’ve learned.
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