Frequently Asked Questions
What is DA3H?
DA3H, pronounced like dash, stands for Divinely Aligned Holistic Health and Healing. DA3H is a carework ecosystem that centers the wellness of Black women, femmes, and working class mothers by providing heart-centered maternal and spiritual care.
Why do you prioritize working with Black people? That feels racist.
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 underserved and mistreated 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.
What is a full spectrum peer doula?
At DA3H, we have chosen to call ourselves “peer doulas” because we recognize that we are accompanying you on your birthing journey. 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. We work together as peers specializing in different frameworks— our doulas specialize in birthwork and you specialize in the knowledge of your life, body, and lived experiences. As a team, we 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.
How can I be sure you are the right provider or me?
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.
How much can a doula impact a birth?
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.
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I like your services but your pricing is out of my budget. Are there options for me?
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..