| Legislation would promote the benefits doulas and midwives can bring to the birthing process (TRENTON) — Legislation tasking the New Jersey Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Authority with establishing a public awareness campaign to promote the benefits of doula and midwife services was signed into law today. Assemblywomen Shanique Speight, Lisa Swain, Verlina Reynolds-Jackson and Carmen Morales sponsored A4222. “Doulas and midwives have a long history of providing care and tirelessly advocating for their patients as they experience one of life’s most challenging and most rewarding moments – childbirth,” said Assemblywoman Speight (D-Essex). “Through this bill, we aim to increase public awareness about the benefits of doulas and midwives and the critical role they play in improving health outcomes by supporting individuals and contributing to a more inclusive and compassionate birthing process.” Under A4222, the campaign materials will showcase the health benefits and improved maternal and infant health outcomes that may result from doulas and midwives; and publicize any free or low-cost resources made available by the State for doula and midwife services. “Many think of midwives and doulas as someone who can help in the moment of labor, but the support they offer starts long before delivery and remains in place well after,” said Assemblywoman Swain (D-Bergen). “This bill will ensure expectant mothers are aware of the full range of medical, educational, and emotional services these professionals provide before, during, and after childbirth.”“With this legislation, we raise awareness and empower mothers with knowledge, support, and the resources they need for a healthier, happier pregnancy and birth experience,” said Assemblywoman Reynolds-Jackson (D-Mercer, Hunterdon). “By providing constituents with knowledge of doula services we give them the tools to make informed decisions about their pregnancy and childbirth.” “Having a trained professional to guide you through one of life’s most transformational moments has advantages for mother and baby alike,” said Assemblywoman Morales (D-Essex). “It’s our job as legislators to make sure that parents-to-be have access to the most information possible to help them through this time. The signing into law of Bill A4222 today is an important step in enabling us to do that.” The establishment of the public awareness campaign would be contingent on the availability of funds. |