Understanding the Role of Race in Doula Communities: Florida Doulas’ Perceptions of Maternal Health Disparities [ID: 1377606

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This study, part of a larger qualitative project, spurred significant participant feedback related to BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, people of color) clients’ needs for support from racially similar doulas. As such, this study analyzed the data to investigate how doulas navigate client perceptions of race. METHODS: Seven in-depth interviews and six focus groups were conducted with doulas serving in Florida (n=31). Transcripts were coded post-inter-coder agreement using an inductive approach to thematic analysis. Participant consent and IRB approval were obtained. RESULTS: 1) White doulas reported Black doulas advising them to refrain from taking on Black, Brown, non-English speaking clients and instead to refer when possible. Some participants explained tendency for implicit bias and discrimination when White doulas try to step into the perspective of clients of color, specifically Black women, despite good intent in trying to support a community facing health disparities. 2) A few doulas referred to White doulas reaching out to non-White clients as a savior/virtue signaling act, while others countered that White doulas can use their racial status for advocacy in medical settings. CONCLUSION: Doulas shared a desire to work with underserved families and discussed that issues surrounding race must first be acknowledged in order to create safer spaces for open communication surrounding maternal health, thereby mitigating disparities. It is important to note that our study relied on convenience sampling, utilizing predominantly White doulas, limiting our data on Black doula experiences and their perceptions on the role of race in the doula–client relationship. Future directions must include diversification of participants and speaking directly with Black doulas.