Maternal Health

Addressing Maternal Health Disparities in Erie County

Erie Niagara AHEC in collaboration with the Erie County Doula Task Force is working to address the maternal health disparities seen within Black/African American women in Erie County. Together, we aim to enhance the impact of the New York State Doula Pilot Program, in which Medicaid-eligible pregnant women can receive doula services at no out-of-pocket cost.

What is a Doula?

Doulas are non-medical birth coaches who assist women during the prenatal, labor & delivery, and postpartum stages. They provide continuous emotional, physical, and informational support throughout each stage, and can serve as an advocate and educator for pregnant women.

Doulas are dedicated to ensuring each mother has a healthy, positive, and satisfying birthing experience.