Cultural Practices and Traditions: Many Black families maintained cultural practices that emphasized the importance of maternal health and infant care. Traditional practices, such as breastfeeding, herbs and home remedies, and communal childcare, helped sustain infants’ health and well-being.
Nicole Deggins, CNM, MSN, MPH is one of the country’s leading maternal health consultants and advocates named “The Midwife Shifting the Narrative” by ESSENCE Magazine. She is a sought-after trainer, public speaker and educator working to eliminate perinatal disparities and bring transparency to prenatal education and the medical obstetrical system. As the founder and CVO of Sista Midwife Productions (SMP) she is dedicated to helping individuals and communities create a paradigm shift around the experience of giving birth. Nicole is the creator of the largest online Black Midwife and Doula directories, and her signature SMP Birth Sister/Doula training. Nicole uses 30 years of experience working with pregnant women and families, to train and support birth workers, communities and organizations that work with childbearing families. Through webinars, keynotes, live workshops, and events, Nicole creates enlightening and engaging programs. She teaches that “Birth is The Revolution” and through birth we can heal our communities.