The Indigenous BirthWorker Network (IBWN), facilitated and coordinated by Berry Medicine Native Birthwork Initiatives, connects Indigenous doulas, lactation counselors, recovery doulas, and maternal and child health advocates serving Tribal and Urban Native communities across Montana.

How It Works

Emerging from Indigenous doula trainings, the network is a vital space for peer support, relationship-building, resource sharing, and collaboration. The IBWN sustains itself through monthly virtual gatherings held every third Thursday of the month, prioritizing ongoing professional learning through guest speakers and education relevant to Indigenous BirthWorkers. Through this work, the network advances culturally grounded maternal health practices and strengthens peer collaboration in their communities. 

Impact

The Indigenous BirthWorker Network (IBWN) was developed and coordinated through the Native American Initiatives program at Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies – The Montana Coalition. Berry Medicine Native Birthwork Initiatives now stewards the network, which brings together Indigenous doulas, lactation counselors, recovery doulas, and maternal and child health advocates who serve Tribal and Urban Native communities across Montana.

Through this work, the IBWN has strengthened peer collaboration, expanded access to professional learning opportunities, and created a supportive space where Indigenous BirthWorkers can build relationships and share knowledge while advancing culturally grounded maternal health practices in their communities.

Email info@berrymedicine if you’d like to be added to the IBWN virtual meeting invites.