Climate Change: A Maternal Health Challenge
When nature unleashes its fury through hurricanes or heat waves, it is often the most vulnerable who bear the brunt — among them, pregnant and postpartum women. These women face heightened risks of dehydration, heat exhaustion, hypertension, and preterm labor during extreme weather events.
For many expectant and new mothers, climate change transcends being a mere environmental concern and becomes a matter of survival. The escalation in extreme weather leaves numerous families without the necessary information and resources to safeguard their health. Bridging this critical gap are community health workers and doulas, who integrate climate education with maternal care.
One such advocate is Shantai Young, a licensed clinical social worker, clinical program manager, and doula with the Jasmine Project. Over the past 15 years, Shantai has devoted herself to maternal and child health, and now, as part of the Doula Climate Health Outreach Team (Doula C-HOT), she aids families in preparing for climate-induced health risks.
Shantai Young’s Journey into Doula Work
Shantai’s entry into doula work was deeply personal. Reflecting on her own experiences as a teen mother, she recalls the struggle with breastfeeding and the lack of support she encountered. A friend introduced her to the concept of a doula, and this revelation sparked her journey. “You’re already doing this advocacy work, why not get trained?” her colleagues urged, leading her to formalize her role as a doula.
Her motivation is driven by the desire to empower families in healthcare settings, ensuring they understand their rights and have their voices heard.
Integrating Climate Preparedness into Maternal Care
Shantai’s path intersected with climate education when she attended a training led by Dr. Cheryl Holder. This training emphasized disaster preparedness, a natural extension of her advocacy work. The program revealed the unpreparedness of many families for disasters like hurricanes and flooding, offering them vital tools and knowledge to start planning.
Addressing Climate-Related Health Concerns
Initially, families did not connect climate change with health concerns. Through discussions, Shantai raised awareness about simple yet crucial aspects, such as hydration and appropriate clothing choices. She also highlighted how certain medications might increase vulnerability to heat, urging families to consult with their doctors.
Once informed, families became proactive in questioning healthcare providers and advocating for their health, unaware previously of the impact of climate stress on their wellbeing.
Family Receptivity and Program Impact
While some families hesitated over personal questions, particularly those about finances, Shantai reassured them about the confidentiality of their information. Ultimately, families appreciated the knowledge and resources, recognizing the simplicity of actions like keeping emergency food supplies, preparing backpacks, and storing important documents securely.
One poignant memory Shantai shared was of a young boy listening to her discussion with his mother about emergency preparedness. His eagerness to pack a bag for himself and his sister underscored the importance of involving children in preparedness.
The Broader Importance of Preparedness
Shantai emphasizes that preparedness transcends pregnancy. It is crucial for everyone — children, teenagers, the elderly, and entire families — to possess these life skills. Being ready for an emergency can make a significant difference, underscoring the broader importance of this educational initiative.
For more information about the Florida Clinicians for Climate Action, visit their website.
Original Story at www.theinvadingsea.com