Episode 48: Obstetric Change

If there’s one thing that doulas know for sure, it is that there is a very real need for obstetric change.

Yet many doulas do not know how that change typically happens.

For many doulas, there is a belief that it is their direct activism that will bring about a quick change. However, if history has taught us anything it is that change in the field of obstetrics is dependably slow. In addition, it is not a simple process.

When change does happen it is typically catalyzed from either research that forms best practice. Or from provider experience.

However, change also comes as a result of consumer demand.

The consumer’s voice is much louder than the doulas. The consumer has the ability to choose where their healthcare dollars get to go. Hospitals are invested in obstetric consumers having a positive experience. A positive childbirth experience typically results in the consumer bringing future business back to that same hospital or healthcare network. For this reason, the consumer’s voice will always be more powerful and influential than that of doulas.

While doula activism towards obstetric change directly isn’t as powerful as consumer demand for change, supporting our clients and the birthing community in their efforts are where doulas can really shine. Doulas can be powerful catalysts towards obstetric change without being directly in the spotlight.

Change in obstetrics is a long game. It takes time. We need doulas who are committed to change who are in this for the long haul.

Come join us as we explore the various pathways to obstetrical change and how we as birth workers can best support change.