That the Senate—
recognizes the important role of doulas in providing respectful, responsive care to all women, including women in underserved communities who lack access to maternal health services;
acknowledges that doula support services provide continuous physical and emotional support to help mothers achieve healthy pregnancies and safe deliveries and recoveries;
urges greater recognition for the important role that doulas play in—
supporting improved pregnancy, birth, and postpartum outcomes, including maternal mental health;
reducing health care costs and working towards the elimination of health disparities; and
overcoming barriers for assisting low-income women of color and women in rural areas with access to health and social supports;
designates the week beginning May 9, 2021, as “Doula Week” to raise awareness for, and advocate for the benefits of, doulas and the support services doulas provide; and
recognizes the importance of access to doula support services, especially in underserved communities.