LaTrisha Jenkins-Pridgeon

My journey into birth work began after experiencing the challenges of preeclampsia, tachycardia, and a blood clotting disorder during my pregnancy. As a Black woman, I also experienced firsthand the gaps and disparities within our maternal healthcare system. During labor, I found myself advocating not only for myself, but also for my baby. Spending my entire pregnancy wondering about the outcome, while navigating such serious health concerns, was emotionally and mentally one of the hardest experiences I have ever faced. Giving birth in a town away from my village and the support system I knew and loved made the experience even more difficult. Through my own journey, I realized that I didn’t want other birthing people to feel alone, unheard, or unsupported. Every person deserves access to a doula and the opportunity to feel safe, respected, informed, and supported throughout their birth experience. My journey as a doula is deeply personal and rooted in love, purpose, and passion. I am honored to provide families with nurturing, compassionate care and to gracefully support them as they navigate one of the most sacred experiences of their lives.

Along with being a certified doula, I am a Certified Lactation Specialist, CPR Certified (adult/child/infant), Basic First Aid Certified and a Limited Licensed Master Social Worker and assist clients in need with linkage to care, community resources, food pantry, diapers, and lactation supplies. Other trainings: Spinning Babies, C-Section 

I support 1-2 clients per month. I am on call for births 2 weeks prior to your EDD. 

We will meet several times during your pregnancy. (Case by case) Medicaid clients are able to receive 12 visits for prenatal and postpartum. 

I am familiar with McLaren Greater Lansing, UofM Sparrow, Hurley, McLaren Flint, and Henry Ford Genesys. 

I am a DONA International certified doula. My holistic, calming and client-centered approach enables me to provide nurturing and evidence-based care during preconception, pregnancy, birth and postpartum journeys. My goal is to ensure birthing people are being heard throughout their entire birth experience and have equitable health outcomes. It is essential for birthing people and their families to be informed while feeling empowered and supported every step of the way. I will advocate for you by amplifying your voice, supporting informed decision making, assisting with a birth preferences sheet. Always remember B.R.A.I.N if you need to make a decision about an intervention or option in your birth. B-Benefits, R-Risks, A-Alternatives, I-Intuition (Trust Yours), N-Nothing (What if we do)

Always keep your doula informed of any labor changes. We will go over worksheet on what to during each stage and when to call (not text) your doula. 

As your doula, I will help you feel safe, supported, informed and in control of your birth experience. We will use the tools in my doula bag to create a calm environment, practice breathwork, affirmations, movement and position changes. 

If I'm not available when you go into labor, I partner with a back-up doula. Yes, I have several backup doulas. 

You will receive the same graceful support and nurturing care as a vaginal delivery. I am c-section trained to be able to support you in any space. 

Postpartum Visits: In-home visits to assist with newborn care, breastfeeding support, and emotional well-being. Infant Care Education: Guidance on newborn care practices, such as bathing, diapering, and soothing techniques. Emotional Support: Listening and providing support for any emotional challenges you may face during the postpartum period. Resource Referrals: Recommendations for local support groups, lactation consultants, pediatricians, and other postpartum resources.

Your support person should not feel replaced my your doula. My role is to help your support person feel more confident and involved in your birthing experience. Your partner or support person will be provided reassurance, given breaks, encouraged to advocate and be emotionally supported.