Yaya DaCosta Shares Insights Into Her Role as a Doula
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Yaya DaCosta, known for her work in Hollywood, recently revealed her lesser-known role as a birth worker and doula since 2010. The actress, who gained fame as a participant in America’s Next Top Model and has since appeared in various TV shows and movies, is now using her platform to shed light on the Black Maternal Health Crisis. DaCosta is currently hosting the Black Maternal Health Festival online, aiming to educate and empower women while addressing the disparities in maternal health outcomes.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, DaCosta expressed her deep passion for birth work and her commitment to destigmatizing traumatic narratives surrounding childbirth. She highlighted the importance of the ongoing conversations around birth work and maternal health, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by Black women. Despite advancements in healthcare policies and access to services, DaCosta pointed out that maternal mortality rates for Black women have not improved and, in fact, have worsened.
The Black Maternal Health Festival, organised by Sumayyah Franklin of Sumi’s Touch, provides a platform for birth workers from around the world to discuss solutions to the prevailing issues in maternal health. DaCosta emphasised the significance of reframing the discourse around childbirth from one of fear to one of empowerment and celebration. The festival aims to spotlight the crucial role of doulas, midwives, and other birth professionals in transforming the birthing experience into a positive and beautiful journey.
Drawing from her personal experience of having an ecstatic home birth in 2013, DaCosta highlighted the transformative power of preparing mentally and emotionally for childbirth. She spoke passionately about the freedom and sacredness of home births, advocating for a more inclusive approach to birthing options. DaCosta’s advocacy extends beyond promoting home births; she also emphasised the importance of acknowledging the diverse choices available to women during the birthing process.
DaCosta’s mission is rooted in providing education and support to women, empowering them to make informed decisions about their birthing experiences. By sharing her own journey and advocating for a more inclusive and empowering approach to childbirth, she hopes to inspire change within the healthcare system. The Black Maternal Health Festival, coinciding with Black Maternal Health Week, serves as a platform for dialogue, education, and advocacy in the ongoing pursuit of positive maternal health outcomes.
As DaCosta continues to champion the rights of women and promote holistic approaches to maternal health, her work as a doula and birth worker carries significant weight in addressing the disparities that persist in maternal healthcare. Through initiatives like the Black Maternal Health Festival, she is making strides towards creating a more supportive and empowering environment for women during pregnancy and childbirth.