Empowering Birth: The Inspiring Work of Deaf Doulas

Safe’N’Clear is recognizing Ally and Brittany from Hands Wave Birth for our March Deaf Leaders Series.

Ally and Brittany are two of several Deaf doulas in the United States, offering their services both in-person and virtually. Their goal is to support the Deaf/signing community, whether patients are local, out-of-state, or international. Their services ensure that families have access to support, resources, and information in their primary language- American Sign Language.

Doulas focus on offering mental, physical, and emotional support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum.  (Is this a quote? If so, need quotation marks) “As Deaf individuals, we faced similar barriers and frustrations in accessing support and resources.” After both experienced pregnancies, Ally reached out to Brittany to explore the idea of becoming Deaf doulas. After completing their doula training, they began sharing information about the benefits of having a doula with the Deaf/signing community. Word quickly spread about their new organization, and more families started seeking their support.

Ally and Brittany’s work is essential for providing smooth, transparent communication between them and the families they support. Additionally, they use their platform and social media to share information about pregnancy, labor and birth, postpartum, and beyond—all in ASL. Ally and Brittany work hard to ensure accommodations are met at appointments and births to ensure smooth and effective communication throughout the process for their patients.

Ally and Brittany were both born and raised Deaf, and being Deaf is all they have ever known. Together, they have five Deaf children (Brittany also has two Children of Deaf Adults- CODAs).

“The Deaf community is truly amazing, offering a deep connection through our shared culture, language, body movements, and facial expressions, which are uniquely expressive and beautiful, ” said Ally and Brittany.

Both Ally and Birttany agree that the best aspect of being Deaf is belonging to a vibrant community that values American Sign Language (ASL), shared experiences, and unique traditions. Being Deaf allows Ally and Brittany to see the world through a unique lens,

ASL is a visual and expressive language that fosters creativity and meaningful connections. Additionally, being Deaf has shaped their resilience and adaptability, helping them to overcome challenges with determination and innovation.

In today’s technology filled world, Ally and Brittany are creative with communication. Video calls, texting, and apps that offer instant captions are just some of the ways Ally and Brittany communicate. In person, they ensure access to interpreters or rely on writing and visual aids when needed.

As Deaf birth workers, Ally and Brittany aspire to leave a legacy of empowerment and advocacy for the Deaf community. “We want to ensure that Deaf individuals and families have full access to the support, information, and resources they need during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum provided in American Sign Language. Our goal is to break down barriers and make the birthing process more inclusive, fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding within the birth community. By helping others see the importance of accessibility and cultural sensitivity. We hope to inspire future Deaf birth workers and create lasting change for families in our community,” said Ally and Brittany.

If you want to connect with Ally and Brittany, their information is below:

Website: https://handwavesbirth.com/
Instagram: @handwavesbirth
Facebook: Hands Waves Birth Services, LLC