Jamaa Birth Village, Missouri’s first Black-owned midwifery clinic, recently hosted a special event aimed at supporting mothers in the community. The event, called the “Blessings Baby Shower,” brought together mothers and families to offer resources, education, and support. With a strong focus on improving maternal health, the clinic aims to reduce birth disparities and provide a safer childbirth experience for Black and marginalized women.
A Safe Space for Maternal Health
Founded by Ou Shon La Amadou, Jamaa Birth Village was created to combat the high maternal mortality rate among Black women, who are 3 to 5 times more likely to die during childbirth. “It’s not because that they’re Black, that there’s something inherently wrong with them,” says Amadou. “It’s because of systemic and structural racism.”
The clinic specializes in midwifery and doula care, emphasizing holistic support, mental health education, and social resources. By addressing the emotional and mental well-being of mothers, Jamaa Birth Village works to ensure they feel supported and empowered throughout their pregnancy and childbirth.
Overcoming Traumatic Birth Experiences
Amadou’s own experience with traumatic births drove her to create a solution. After enduring two difficult pregnancies as a teenager and facing poor treatment, she realized there had to be a better way. “I wanted to make sure that people had access to midwives, doulas, mental health education in their community and other social support services,” Amadou explains. “I want to make sure people survive childbirth, not die in childbirth.”
The “Blessings Baby Shower” event provided just that—resources and services to help mothers thrive during and after pregnancy. This event is one of many efforts by Jamaa Birth Village to create a supportive, welcoming environment for mothers in St. Louis and beyond.
Promoting Safer Childbirth and Providing Resources
At the baby shower, mothers received not only educational materials but also tangible resources to help them prepare for the arrival of their babies. These items included baby clothes, diapers, and mental health resources to help manage stress and anxiety. Amadou believes that 84% of maternal deaths are preventable with the right support, especially mental health services.
The event was a celebration of the importance of mental health during pregnancy. Amadou and her team want mothers to know that they matter and deserve beautiful, healthy, and joyful childbirth experiences. “We’re here for the community for the long haul,” Amadou says, emphasizing her commitment to improving maternal health in Missouri.
Looking to the Future: A Black-Led Birth Center
Jamaa Birth Village is not stopping with midwifery services. The clinic is currently working on building Missouri’s first Black-led Birth Center and Postpartum retreat haven. This initiative will provide a holistic and supportive space for mothers before and after childbirth. The project aims to continue its mission of ensuring that mothers in Missouri have access to the care they need to have safe and healthy pregnancies.
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