Frequently Asked Questions
We work primarily (but not exclusively) with Black birthing people and families. In the U.S. Black women and birthing people die due to childbirth complications at a higher rate than any other demographic. The maternal mortality rate for Black women and birthing people is 2-3 times higher than the mortality rate for white women. Studies show Black women and birthing people are often underheard, misunderstood, and underserved in medical environments. Black people have higher rates of postpartum mood disorders, postpartum complications, and often suffer from a lack of culturally competent resources. This is about meeting a need and providing a love offering to the community.
And reverse racism doesn’t exist.
We have chosen to call ourselves peer doulas because we are going on this journey alongside you. As a doula, I have had the opportunity to explore specialized studies related to birth and birthing. However, you have been yourself for much longer. Together we work together, as peers, to make sure you are educated, informed, and supported as you navigate pregnancy and new parenthood.
I have 4+ years of experience as a peer mentor and understand the significance of learning from a place of empowerment instead of simply instruction.
As a full spectrum doula, we are here to support you at any stage along the reproductive life cycle from abortion, fertility and conception to pregnancy, birth, and loss. We are here for you.
Ultimately, this is a decision you have to make for yourself. We recommend scheduling a consultation– here you will get 1:1 time to speak with Desiree’, ask personalized questions, and get to know a little bit more about her doula philosophy. If you decide she is not the right fit, don’t worry. We have plenty of excellent birth workers, reiki practitioners, and/or diviners that we can refer you to.
Doulas do not guarantee birth outcomes. Doulas can, however, have a plethora of positive impacts on the birthing experience. Doula care can reduce rates of cesarean and premature birth as well as improve breastfeeding success for supported families. Read more about how doula support can benefit you here.
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One of the biggest lessons I have learned from my career in maternal care and reproductive research is how important it is to listen. So often, women and birthing people (especially if they are Black) are not heard and not believed in healthcare settings. I have seen it happen to my clients as a doula and I experienced it happen to me during my own pregnancy. Too little effort is put into centering the client or patient. At DA3H, we recognize that you are the expert of your own body. We strive to ensure each of our clients, no matter the service, are witnessed wholly and authentically.
Yes! We do not want price to be the reason you do not receive care. As an anti-capitalist entity, we know money can often be a barrier. Below are a few of the ways we work to offset these issues and make our work more affordable and accessible.
Discounts. Black people, LGBTQIA+ people, and formerly incarcerated people have access to our services at a discounted rate. Reach out through the contact form here for more information.
The Doula Network. The Doula Network is a national organization that makes doula care accessible by partnering with state Medicaid programs to cover doula services. I am credentialed through The Doula Network and can support births for those with United Healthcare Medicaid free of charge. Reach out through the contact form for more information.
The Gulf Coast Doula Coalition. The Gulf Coast Doula Coalition is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that provides doula services on a low-cost sliding scale for people of the global majority (BIPOC), low-income, LGBTQIA+, disabled, young or teen parents, and the incarcerated. You can apply for services here.
If none of these work, still reach out. We can always figure something out.
Divinated destinies is a sister site that houses our more esoteric offerings. Through divinated destinies we may meet with Spirit in a more intimate container to partner with our higher self and get direction. Divinated destinies and divinely aligned work hand in hand together.