Meet our Founder/ Why I Became a Trauma Informed Birth Doula
STEPHANE NEPTUNE
Stephane Neptune is not just the driving force behind our organization; she is a testament to the power of unwavering courage and compassion. Born in Jamaica and raised in Miami, Stephane's life story is one of overcoming challenges with grace and empowering others to do the same. Stephane's own harrowing experiences with domestic violence, particularly through a previous pregnancy, became the catalyst for her life's work. Enduring the trauma of domestic violence during childbirth, she understands intimately the physical and psychological scars left behind. It is her personal journey of healing and resilience that inspired Stephane to reach out and support others facing similar battles. At Sister Guide Sister Wellness Solutions, Stephane has cultivated a community grounded in empathy and understanding. Her mission is to provide a safe haven for women battling the mental challenges accompanying traumatic pregnancies and or the grief of losing a child during birth.
WHAT IS A DOULA?
A doula is a professional trained to provide continuous support to mothers before, during, and after childbirth. Unlike medical personnel, doulas are chosen and employed directly by the expectant parent(s) to offer non-clinical assistance, which includes emotional and physical support, aiding in pain relief through various labor positions, and offering comfort measures like massage.
Doulas serve as advocates and encouragers for the birthing individual and their partner, facilitating communication with the healthcare team and helping maintain a positive and calming environment, often employing tools such as music and aromatherapy. They also play a role in promoting the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and pain relief.
Although doulas do not perform medical tasks or deliver babies, they can complement medical care by providing ongoing reassurance and presence, which some medical professionals may not be able to offer consistently due to hospital protocols or scheduling.
Doulas are versatile and attend births in various settings, including hospitals, birthing centers, and home births. While a doctor or midwife may not be constantly present, appearing intermittently or potentially changing during shift changes, a doula remains with the birthing person throughout labor, offering a consistent and comforting presence that can help mitigate stress
The Effects of Trauma/ Domestic Violence in Pregnancy/ and in a Developing Fetus
Trauma and domestic violence during pregnancy can have serious and long-lasting effects on both the mother and the developing fetus. Here are some of the potential impacts:
Effects on Pregnancy:
1. Physical Injury: Direct harm to the abdomen or injury resulting from physical assault can lead to placental abruption, preterm labor, miscarriage, or stillbirth.
2. Stress Responses: Chronic stress from trauma or violence can cause the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can affect fetal development and lead to complications such as low birth weight and premature birth.
3. Inadequate Prenatal Care: Victims of domestic violence may face barriers to receiving proper prenatal care, either due to controlling behavior by the abuser or fear of seeking help, leading to unaddressed health issues.
4. Substance Use: In some cases, trauma and violence can lead to increased use of substances such as tobacco, alcohol, or drugs as coping mechanisms, which can negatively impact fetal development and lead to complications such as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD).
5. Poor Nutrition: Domestic violence can lead to food insecurity or eating disorders, resulting in poor maternal nutrition which is crucial for fetal growth and development.
