Why Black doulas matter
Black women in the US are 3–4x more likely to die in childbirth than white women. A Black doula reduces this risk by serving as an advocate inside hospital systems that frequently dismiss Black pain.
Where to find one
National Black Doulas Association, Black Mamas Matter Alliance directory, and BirthMatters.org all have search by state.
Cost
Typical full-package doula service runs $800–$2,500. Some Medicaid programs in NY, Minnesota, and California now cover doula services.
Other resources
The 4th Trimester Project at the Center for Black Maternal Health (Tufts) focuses on the postpartum window — often where Black-maternal mortality spikes.