Before birth,
we partner with mothers to develop a birth plan, offer comprehensive childbirth education classes, and answer questions about what their prison birthing experience will look like.
During labor,
we meet mothers at the hospital to provide emotional reassurance, decision-making help, and physical support.
Our goal is to help with communication between the birthing mother and care providers. Each of our doulas is experienced and familiar with the hospital and medical staff.
After birth,
most new mothers will only get 1-2 days to spend with their baby before they are taken back to prison. The doula will help the mother bond with her baby, assisting with breastfeeding if they choose. We strive to ensure this time is as precious and uninterrupted as possible.
Our vision
MPDI’s vision for the future includes opportunities for further bonding between mothers and their families, re-entry resources, mentorship opportunities, and extra time for mothers to bond with and feed their babies. And, ultimately, we envision a future in which pregnant people are not incarcerated.