Rayey Olvera-Velazquez
Research Mentor: Paul Fleming
Mentor Department: Health Behavior & Health Equity, Public Health
Author(s): Paul J Fleming, Rayey Olvera-Velazquez, Hannah Mesa-Martinez
Session: Session 7 (4:00 PM – 4:50 PM)
Presentation Type: Poster 72
Abstract
Our project aims to evaluate the impact of Spanish-speaking, community-based doula support on maternal and infant health outcomes In Michigan. Spanish-speaking doulas have emerged as a promising strategy to improve birth outcomes among Latine patients by addressing social determinants of health and ensuring language access. Doulas are particularly beneficial for patients of color and from marginalized communities, culturally or socially, by facilitating clear communication, promoting patient-centered decision-making, educating about physiologic birth and available interventions, providing guidance on navigating the healthcare system, and providing culturally responsive support. Disparities that Latine mothers and birthing persons are prone to include limited language access, cultural gap within the healthcare system, and not enough postpartum support come from structural inequities within the healthcare system. Research demonstrates that non-English speakers are approximately twice as likely to experience obstetric trauma and are exposed to higher-risk deliveries compared with English speakers. Our team provided the first community-based doula training in Spanish that was aimed for training existing doulas to be able to train new doula in Michigan. Ultimately, certification will be given to participants which will make them eligible to facilitate Spanish-language Community-Based Doula Trainings in partnership with the University of Michigan School of Public Health.
