Hi...I guess this topic would go here, I'm not sure...I'm looking for any doulas or birth activists in the central Maryland area who would be interested in joining and/or helping to establish and create discussions for a birth network. Currently the central Maryland area has a few birth circles, however those are mainly used by people after they have given birth, not before they do it. There's a non-profit organization called birth network that is creating chapters all over the country aimed at informing, educating, and promoting a women centered birthing environment. You can check out their website at http://www.birthnetwork.org I'm very interested in starting a chapter here in Maryland, I like in Howard county but it could be used by surrounding counties like carroll, frederick, baltimore, etc. I'm wondering if there's anyone interested in helping with the establishment or coming up with topics for monthly meetings. Please reply or PM me if you're interested...thanks in advance!

I would be very interested in having a network in the HoCo area. Unfortunately, right now I can only help from a distance. I'm attending school in PA, but plan on moving back to the HoCo/Baltimore Co area after I graduate in the spring. I've already decided I'd like to join a doula circle as it might be hard for me to maintain clients with an RN's schedule (at least in the beginning of my career!) Please keep me updated on any progress...

Good luck to you and your birthNetwork

We have recently well, 6 mos+ ago started up a chapter here in Columbus, Ga

WE desperatley need the information but, we are struggling.

I pray you find some dedicated volunteers and are able to get the message out.

Did you attend the Leader training?
The ladies at National are great!! You can call on them for anything.



I was doing a monthly flyer and I FINALLY got some sense (a suggestion from another member:))and made up a general flyer for 6 mos.
We even did "The Business of Being Born" with a very small attendance:(.

Our town has 3 CNM's, a handful of doulas, I don't know of any well advertised Independant CBE's, WE have mostly hospital classes. ONly one Bradley instructor.
C-Section rates aren't even being tracked anymore. A CNM was told that no one was interested in that information.

I believe in the mission and I really think women should know that there is so much research debunking many of the routine procedures.
I am just praying for NEW ears to hear the message.

My goal for 2008 is to get a resource guide and some professionals on board.
Good Luck to you and your chapter.
Keep us posted as to how your monthly meetings go.

I'm in MD, but on the Eastern Shore, not central MD....happy to help in whatever way I can.

I'm in Frederick. We've been trying to reactivate Birthing Circle. But that project is on hold. I"m interested in your endeavors.

Hi,
I just found you post about creating a birth network in Maryland. I am a doula, chldbirth educator and prenatal yoga instructor in Baltimore. I would love to work with you to grow our network.
If you are still interested please e-mail me birthingbabes at gmail dot com.

Namaste'