Ashley Scruggs and her maternal doula, Stacy Booher, share an emotional embrace Nov. 13, 2024, during a panel about Black maternal health in Marion County at the AMP at 16 Tech in Indianapolis. Credit: Jennifer Wilson Bibbs for Mirror Indy

Indianapolis families can spend a day with a doula on Oct. 25.

The event will include prenatal and postpartum support, free diapers and giveaways, and breastfeeding education. It is hosted by JUST Community Inc., a nonprofit working to lower Indiana’s infant and maternal mortality rates by supporting families through pregnancy.

The group also trains doulas — birthing workers who advocate for mothers in and outside the delivery room. Having a doula present is associated with shorter labor times and fewer cesarean births

“This is your chance to meet your birth support doula,” a virtual flier for the event reads. “A caring presence who will stand by your side, advocate for you and help you feel safe, supported and seen throughout your pregnancy journey and beyond.” 

Day with a Doula kicks off at 10 a.m. and runs until 1 p.m at the International District, 3540 Commercial Drive. 

Participants can reserve a free spot on Eventbrite. 

Mirror Indy, a nonprofit newsroom, is funded through grants and donations from individuals, foundations and organizations.

Mirror Indy reporter Mary Claire Molloy covers health. Reach her at 317-721-7648 or email maryclaire.molloy@mirrorindy.org. Follow her on X @mcmolloy7.

Creative Commons License

Republish our articles for free, online or in print, under a Creative Commons license.

Local news delivered straight to your inbox

Mirror Indy's free newsletters are your daily dose of community-focused news stories.

By clicking Sign Up, you’re confirming that you agree with our Terms of Use.

Related Articles