Being a good relative: Indigenous doulas reclaiming cultural knowledge to improve health and birth outcomes in Manitoba

Jaime Cidro,Caroline Doenmez,Ari Phanlouvong,Ali Fontaine

doi:10.15761/fwh.1000157

Abstract

This project was funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research through the Institute of Aboriginal People's Health (IAPH).

Highlights

Indigenous women are increasingly returning to culturally based birthing practices to assert their sovereignty over their bodies and their birthing experience generally
This paper describes the experiences of the first cohort of Indigenous doulas trained in Winnipeg, Manitoba by the Manitoba Indigenous Doula Initiative (MIDI), known as Wiijii’idiwag Ikwewag, and will describe the specific contributions and impacts of Indigenous doulas who support Indigenous women during pregnancy and birth
The paper will describe the research methodology that was employed, the results of our interviews and a discussion of the impact of Indigenous doulas, for First Nations women who travel for birth

Summary

Introduction

Indigenous women are increasingly returning to culturally based birthing practices to assert their sovereignty over their bodies and their birthing experience generally. The impact of colonization on birthing experiences for First Nations women in Canada has been profound and extends into generations of families. First Nations women across Canada have traditionally birthed in their communities surrounded by families and community, observing many traditions around pregnancy and birthing including placenta burying and belly button ceremonies. These traditions and this circle of care and support resulted in resiliency, strength and a connection to the land and family. The paper will describe the research methodology that was employed, the results of our interviews and a discussion of the impact of Indigenous doulas, for First Nations women who travel for birth

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion