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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
COMMEMORATING WORLD DOULA DAY AND DOULA WEEK IN COOK COUNTY
WHEREAS, March 22, 2025, marks the globally recognized World Doula Day, coinciding with the commencement of Doula Week; and
WHEREAS, the observance of World Doula Day and Doula Week serves as a poignant reminder of the invaluable contributions made by doulas worldwide, recognizing their unwavering dedication to supporting women, newborns, and families during the profound journey of childbirth and the postpartum period; and
WHEREAS, doulas play an instrumental role in fostering the physiological, social, emotional, and psychological well-being of individuals and families, offering guidance, advocacy, and compassionate care throughout the birthing process and beyond; and
WHEREAS, in Cook County we underscore the significance of acknowledging and celebrating the tireless efforts of doulas, emphasizing the importance of empowering these essential caregivers who enhance the childbirth experience and promote holistic health outcomes for mothers, infants, and families; and
WHEREAS, Doula Week provides a platform to raise awareness, honor the legacy, and highlight the pivotal role of doulas in advocating for informed decision-making, maternal autonomy, and inclusive support systems within diverse communities worldwide; and
WHEREAS, Cook County Health recently launched their 1st Doula Program, which will encompass a 3-year, $3 million effort to support the physical and emotional of mother before, during, and after pregnancy and improve maternal health outcomes in Cook County; and
WHEREAS, Doula services not only are shown to improve maternal health outcomes, but are a way of reducing costs associated with maternal mortality and morbidity due to less dependence on pain medication; shorter duration of labor-less time in the hospital; fewer operative deliveries, such as C-section episiotomy (a cut on the vagina to facilitate birth); higher APGAR (newborn) scores; decreased infant m...
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