MCH Student:

Elizabeth Scott

Date of Defense:

2010

Abstract:

Objectives: To evaluate some of the outcomes of the Family Center Community Doula program.

Methods:  This report uses data from three sources:  qualitative data from two focus groups, a questionnaire that was administered after the focus groups, and quantitative data gathered from clients for nine key indicators.

Results:  Participants by and large valued their doulas’ support.  Given some of the issues specific to Spanish-speaking mothers and women of color, doulas were often the only support person and help from whom mothers felt heard in the medical system.  Further, doulas helped with social isolation during pregnancy and postpartum.

Conclusions:  Development and expansion of follow-up measurement tools, including to measure breastfeeding duration and challenges, could provide meaningful data for the program.