The Guahan Doula Project delivers support as part of Primary Care Week

As part of the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services' observance of National Primary Care Week, the Guahan Doula Project is hosting outreach sessions - helping mothers find comfort, confidence, and community before welcoming new life into the world.

As National Primary Care Week continues, local organizations are expanding what care means for our families. And at the Southern Region Community Health Center, the Bureau of Women’s Affairs and the Birthworkers of Color Collective are offering more than education – they’re providing support and advocacy through the Guahan Doula Project.

The initiative connects expecting mothers with trained doulas – professionals who offer physical, emotional, and informational support before, during, and after childbirth. Their focus: compassionate, non-judgmental care rooted in cultural and traditional practices.

The Birthworkers of Color Collective, a national nonprofit, specializes in supporting marginalized communities with inclusive and accessible doula services – training local doulas, hosting outreach sessions, and advocating for safer, more positive birthing experiences. And their Guam chapter shared that mission with a room  of expecting mothers looking to prepare for one of life’s biggest transitions.

Collective member Gilayna said, “When you go into the medical setting and the person who’s helping you understands your culture or your background it feels more comfortable, more safe.”

So, what exactly is a doula? Unlike a doctor or nurse, a doula provides continuous support through pregnancy, labor, and postpartum recovery – complementing medical care, not replacing it. “We come on request, on demand. So if you let us know that you need something and support, we’ll show up. If your partner is not there with you at an appointment, we can also show up too," said fellow member Kirsten.

With Guam seeing a decline in midwives in recent years, doulas may be the next best option for families navigating childbirth – helping mothers understand their bodies, manage pain, and even integrate cultural practices during delivery and postpartum care. Both ladies remind the community that pregnancy isn’t a solo journey – it’s a family effort.

“The people who are helping you through this should be a part of these educational sessions so that they know what to do," shared Gilyana, adding that the collective also teaches a decision-making tools, empowering mothers to make informed choices every step of the way.

Their sessions also emphasize mental health, encouraging mothers to nurture their emotional well-being alongside their physical recovery.

If you’d like to learn more, the Guahan Doula Project is hosting two outreach sessions – on October 9, at the Northern Region Community Health Center in Dededo — the first session is from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and the second is from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m.

There will be gas certificates for pregnant women, snacks, water, and books for small children who attend.

Because as the saying goes: it takes a village. And for many island families, that village could now include a doula.