As a doula with more than a decade of experience supporting families from all walks of life, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of real, human care in birth and postpartum. And lately, I’ve been reading a lot about the rise of “AI doulas.” If you’re a pregnant woman, a parent, or someone who cares about equitable maternal care, you should think critically too.

Because here’s the truth: AI doulas, no matter how smart or advanced the technology, cannot replace the support, knowledge, compassion and embodied expertise of live doulas and birth workers. And that limitation matters deeply, especially for Black and Brown women and for families in rural and underserved areas who are already struggling to access quality maternal care.

The Evidence Speaks for Real Doula Support
Over years of training, intuitive skill and lived experience, doulas have become an evidence-based part of maternal care. Multiple peer-reviewed studies have linked doula support, particularly continuous, human, non-clinical support, to:

• Improved Birth Outcomes Research shows that doula support is associated with reduced cesarean rates, shorter labor, increased breastfeeding initiation and lower maternal stress. Doula presence during labor is also linked with a 25% reduced risk of cesarean delivery and improved birth satisfaction.
• Better Maternal Experiences Studies show that doulas help birthing people feel more informed, supported and empowered in decision-making around their birth preferences. Even virtual doula support (which is still provided by real humans) has been associated with lower odds of cesarean and better reported birth experiences, particularly among Black mothers.
• Health Equity There’s growing interest in integrating doulas into Medicaid programs precisely because community-based doula care has the potential to address racial inequities in maternal outcomes and disrupt systemic biases in obstetric care. 

​What Real Doulas Bring That AI Simply Can’t
When people talk about AI doulas, they usually mean chatbots or machine learning tools designed to answer questions about pregnancy, contractions, labor stages or baby care. They might offer information. They might offer checklists. They might even simulate empathy through programmed responses.

But here’s what AI cannot and will never do:

• Embodied Presence Doulas are physically present. We hold your hand. We move with your body. We feel the ebb and flow of your labor. We see the tension, the tears, the triumphs, and we respond in real time in ways an algorithm never could.
• Human Connection & Trust Birth is vulnerable. Postpartum is raw. People want someone who truly sees them, respects them and advocates for them in a system that often ignores their voice. AI doesn’t build relationship, trust or safety, but lived human beings do.
• Contextual Understanding No AI can interpret your emotional state, your cultural background, your medical context and your preferences in the nuanced way a trained doula can. We know how to support a pregnant woman and partner, we know how to navigate hospital systems and we help people make decisions that align with their values and bodies.
• Advocacy & Anti-Racist Support This matters more than ever for Black and Brown birthing people. Research shows that doulas can buffer the harmful effects of bias in maternity care and improve birth experiences for Black women, including reducing experiences of perceived racism during birth. In a study of Black mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic, those with doulas reported less perceived racism and better birth experiences when doulas were physically present. 

The truth is that AI can't give the much-needed human response to years of infertility, a third trimester pregnancy loss, a changed birth plan that ends in an emergency csection, birth trauma, the long journey of breastfeeding or pumping, preparing to leave your baby with someone while you return to work and all of the other countless physical, emotional and mental changes that come with parenthood.

Where AI May Help and Where It Falls Short
Listen, I don’t dismiss technology outright. The modern world has come along way with technological advances. AI tools can offer resources, triage information and support access to basic guidance when no human is available. There is emerging research on AI applications in maternal health in low-resource settings that aid triage and decision support for clinical staff. But that’s not the same as replacing a doula. Those applications are clinical adjuncts, not sources of continuous physical, emotional, cultural, and advocacy support.

Bridging the Gap: Companies Who are Making a Difference
At the same time, we are seeing companies like Maven Clinic and Cleo step into this space, offering families access to virtual doulas, care advocates, and wellness support through technology. These platforms are often employer-sponsored benefits designed to increase access to guidance, education, and support across pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting. Through services like video consultations, messaging, and on-demand resources, virtual doulas on platforms like Maven can help with birth planning, answer questions, and provide emotional support from a distance. Cleo similarly connects families with guides and experts who offer personalized support across different stages of caregiving . And to be clear, there is value here. These tools can help bridge gaps, especially for families who might not otherwise have access to any support at all. But even as these companies expand access, what they are offering is still adjacent to, not a replacement for, the deeply relational, hands-on, culturally attuned care that in-person doulas provide. Technology can extend our reach, but it cannot replicate our presence.

AI will continue to evolve. AI doulas may become more sophisticated. But they will always be tools, not replacements, for the human heart, presence, intuition and expertise that real doulas bring to birth and postpartum care. Real doulas don’t just provide information, we bear witness. We advocate. We care. We walk into the unknown with you. And in birth, that human presence matters.

Want to know the real deal about AI? Watch this eye-opening video on the future of AI from a spiritual perspective.

Now that Summer is over (that was FAST), I wanted to share my new daily schedule. I still haven't had a chance to update all of my calendars, so please save this for reference.

September 4th thru 6th-Closed
October 11th-Closed
Due to my current client load and professional responsibilities, I will be less available in the next few months. Email or text will be the best ways to contact me.

BOBWDS Birth Calendar: I have had some recent changes to my birth calendar and I have 1 October and 1 November birth spaces available at the moment. Update as of September 17th: my calendar is closed for 2021.

Doula Consultations (via phone): Monday & Tuesday evenings, weekend consultations by request only

Prenatal Meetings (in person): weekends only

Postpartum & Reproductive Care Services: Tuesday afternoons & weekends only

CPR/First Aid: Registration for CPR/First Aid is currently on hold for individuals and businesses. Please contact me if you want to be added to the training waitlist or if you want a private training.

Doula Mentorship will resume in February 2022.

Zumba:
September class session begins on Wednesday, September 1st. Classes are on Wednesdays at 7 p.m.
4 classes for $40 (The 5th Wednesday will be drop in only)
Register for the sessions here>>> raleighnc.gov/reclink or drop in for $12.
Stay tuned for @fitnessmomshell meetups and pop up events!

Safety measures and precautions are still in place as we continue to navigate Covid-19. Mask wearing, social distancing and handwashing will take place at all meetings. Virtual meetings will still be an option for your comfort and ​convenience.

QOTD: How's Your Quality of Life?

August is National Wellness Month and if you know me, then you already know that wellness is a top priority for me, personally and professionally. Recently, I made some much needed changes to my health and wellness routine. Last month I relaunched my fitness brand and Fitness Momshell 2.0 has been in full effect for a few weeks. I love being back on the dance floor, getting low and sweating with my students! I had a couple of "hiccups" in July, but I'm focused and ready to meet my August goals.

I made a major change in the Spring that has completely improved my quality of life in a major way. Because of my endometriosis, I folow a strict health and wellness regime (most days). Back in April, I had major oral surgery and without going into detail, it was a long, intense recovery. Four months later and I still can't eat apples. I lost almost 12 pounds during the first week of my recovery because I couldn't eat or swallow. Turns out, the surgery was a blessing in disguise. A total "reset" if you will.

Physically, I struggled. Not eating was just the beginning. I basically had to learn how to eat again. I still have a hard time with some foods, especially meat. My relationship with food has changed for the better (I had terrible eating habits during quarantine) and I think I have finally kicked this sweet tooth... I think.

After all I went through to get this surgery (that's a crazy long story for another time) and all the pain I endured during my healing and recovery, I promised myself that I was going put my health and wellness first from now on. No more sweets or wine. Period. With that wasted money, I created my "Wellness Budget" which now goes towards my supplements and wellness product purchases. Instead of consuming empty calories that make me sick, I am feeding and healing my body with some amazing herbs & holistic products. I made a clear cut decision and a commitment and I am happy to report: so far, so good.

I have also invested more time into my mental and spiritual wellness. I have also been spending a great deal of time reading the Bible for understanding and listening to sermons. This is a big part of my self care routine now as it helps to keep me focused and lifted. Staying positive is important with so much going in globally right now.

I know with the virus still lingering, there are those worried about what work and life will look like for the rest of the year and even beyond. Now is not the time to worry or fret. Do whatever you need to do to be and live. Invest in your health. You're worth it.

As more and more people receive the COVID-19 vaccine and North Carolina begins to loosen it's restrictions throughout the state, I wanted to give another (prayerfully my last) operational update for Best of Both Worlds Doula Services. 
 
Beginning in April, Best of Both Worlds Doula Services will conduct in person consultations and meetings in addition to the current virtual option. Reminder: contracts can be signed and sent electronically or by mail. Any and all payments (deposits or otherwise) means the client acknowledges and agrees to the doula contract and all stipulations. Certain policies and practices will still be in place due to COVID-19 restrictions and mandates.

My Availability: I will have limited availability for any services in April due to dental surgery and recovery. I am currently taking birth clients due in June and beyond. Postpartum services will tentatively resume in May. Travel doula services will tentatively resume in Summer 2021.

Adult and Infant CPR/First Aid/AED training will be available to clients, small businesses and birth workers in April. Email me for more info and registration. Group rates available. Limited number of registrants for safety.

Zumba classes are still currently on hold for the time being since the community center is still closed to the public. I am currently looking for an alternate location to host classes. All other health and fitness services will be accommodated at my discretion depending on clients wants and needs. Check out my Fitness Momshell Facebook page for updates... NEW SERVICES COMING SOON!

Best of Both Worlds Doula Services is committed to providing you quality, safe support as we navigate COVID-19. Thank you for understanding and continued support.

Reminders:

• Know your rights. Hospital policies are not law.
• Advocate for yourself and reiterate your birth vision when necessary.
• If you or someone you know has given birth during the COVID-19 pandemic, please feel free to participate in my Birth in 2020 project. Learn more here.
• Need vaccine info? Click here to read my quick info guide.

​
Below you can find links to all of the local hospitals to obtain current visitor policies & restrictions. These policies are changing every day so please be sure to confirm what is stated here and on their website by calling or emailing.

*UNC Health Care/Rex Hospital

*WakeMed Health and Hospitals

*Duke Health
​
Women's Birth and Wellness Center

*Wake County Health Department

*Durham County Health Department

*Johnston County Health Department

The * indicates the COVID-19 test sites.

Happy Black History Month!

Oh, wait.... Happy New Year too!

I hope and pray everyone reading this is well and has started the new year off with new goals & intentions that will only lead to great things.

I have to be honest with you... January was a bit difficult for me. I was dealing with a couple of big disappointments from December and I was in a terrible funk. I will spare you the details because truthfully I don't need to revisit those feelings and while I am not 100% over it all, God has already dealt with my heart concerning these matters and I know that my delay is not a denial.

I began the new year with a three week fast for some spiritual insight. It was hard, especially since I was on call for three families, but the clarity I received was invaluable. I was having a difficult time moving forward with my plans and goals for this year because I was still carrying the heaviness of last year. Although, I tried to prioritize my physical & mental health in 2020, it got harder with each passing day. I realized that there was/is a lot going on around me that I cannot control and instead of backing away and taking a break to protect my peace, I developed a habit of having to know what was happening in the world at any given moment (staying informed) even when it triggers me. I definitely blame that on 45. At this point we all have PTSD from the trauma that man caused America and the world. That means we all have a pre-existing condition now, right?

If you have been following me for some time then you may know that I used to write and end-of-the-year rant aka blog airing my grievances (mostly political) from the year. But we lived and survived all 366 days of the mess that was 2020. Unfortunately, we are still dealing with it all. And some of us are dealing with even more due to the lack of action from Congress in a timely manner. My heart can't help but hurt thinking of all the families who have lost loved ones, homes, jobs and so much more in the past year. And unfortunately, the affects of what happened in 2020 will not end any time soon. It has already affected the next generation and their way life, education and health.

With all that we have endured, it only seems right that I, and maybe you too, are feeling stuck. My advice: explore those feelings and see where it leads you. Find a way to move forward, even if you have to change your daily routine. But please, do not be afraid to move forward. Fear breeds nothing, literally. Tell me the truth: are you still doing the same thing you were doing in April 2020 when quarantine first began? Have you changed anything about how you live, work or play? More importantly, is your self care routine the same? (It shouldn't be.) Yes, we as humans can be very adaptable especially when we have very little choice. But we also can't ignore our instincts and expectations to be safe and secure. Transparency: I haven't felt safe since the election. And of course my feelings only grew stronger on January 6th. This post was almost titled "Dear America, I Don't Trust You", but I had to shift my energy because I didn't want to start the new year on a negative note. But you know what I'm getting at.

So what is in store for me and Best of Both Worlds Doula Services in 2021? LOTS! But you will just have to wait and see. I will be moving a bit differently this year so I can accomplish some BIG goals and birth some new things. What exactly does that mean? I am going to be "Reclaiming My Time" as auntie Maxine Waters says. It means that I will be less available. I will purposely and unapologetically be selfish with my time. Less social media and checking in on people. I am constantly giving my time whether it is with family, clients, mentees and business colleagues. and after last year, I think about time, my time, much differently. Growth and protecting my peace are my only priorities this year. This next level will require more of me which means less everything else.

If you are feeling anything but joy and happiness right now. That is okay. That is expected. Breathe. Be open minded and ready for new opportunities and doors to open even if it's not what you expected. Trust the process and your intuition. Reclaim your time and take control of the things you can. Everything will fall into place at the right time.