Indigenous Doulas
The Heart of Birth
Watch the video to hear from community doulas and learn how these caring birth supporters are honoring Native traditions, creating safe spaces, and helping families welcome new life with love and strength.
Honoring Tradition, Empowering Families
A doula is a trusted helper who provides emotional, physical, and spiritual support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Programs like the Ninde Doula Program and Zaagi’idiwin Indigenous Full Spectrum Doula are rooted in cultural respect and community care, helping families feel supported and empowered throughout their journey. Doulas work alongside medical professionals but focus on honoring the family’s unique needs and traditions, without performing clinical tasks. Traditionally, birth was a sacred space supported by women helpers—like aunties and grandmas—and this wisdom continues today through modern doula care.
- What is the role of a doula in supporting new mothers during pregnancy and the baby's first year of life?
- What types of support does a doula provide throughout the birthing process?
- How does having a doula contribute to a more positive prenatal, birthing, and postpartum experience?
- In what ways does a doula differ from a licensed medical provider, such as a nurse?
Each story holds wisdom—continue learning with us.