From Granny Midwives to Modern Doulas: 40 Years of Birth Work Experience

MediHelpz Live w/Sandra L Washington

Patricia "Mamu" Rangel brings 40+ years of wisdom from the frontlines of maternal healthcare to this powerful conversation about the past, present, and future of Black maternal health. A nurse who has worked across multiple hospital units including labor and delivery, postpartum, and now an OBGYN clinic, Mamu also serves as a doula, childbirth educator, and lactation consultant—bringing a uniquely comprehensive perspective to maternal care.
The conversation explores a striking paradox: how traditional "granny midwives" with minimal formal education could deliver hundreds or even thousands of babies without losses, while our modern medical system continues to struggle with maternal mortality rates, particularly for Black mothers. "What are we doing that they were doing, that we're not doing?" Mamu asks, challenging us to reconsider what wisdom might have been lost in the medicalization of birth.
Throughout her career, Mamu witnessed the evolution of the doula profession from misunderstood outsiders to valued members of the birth team. She passionately advocates for more comprehensive doula education beyond weekend certification programs, suggesting mentorship models where experienced doulas guide newcomers. "You might be able to say you know what you're doing because of the information that you received coming out," she notes, "but when you're with someone who's been in the trenches, they can catch your flaws."
The conversation takes a poignant turn when discussing the shift away from personal connection in healthcare. "Nobody wants to talk to you anymore," Mamu observes, lamenting how technology has replaced face-to-face communication. This disconnect extends beyond the hospital to family dynamics, where meaningful interaction has diminished. For expectant families, this highlights the importance of finding providers who prioritize building relationships and truly hearing mothers' voices.
For those considering careers in healthcare, Mamu offers invaluable guidance: find your niche, understand the demanding nature of the work, and maintain emotional boundaries while still providing compassionate care. Her wisdom reminds us that birth work isn't just a job—it's a calling that requires both passion and boundaries to serve families effectively while sustaining yourself for the long haul.

Chapters

1. Black History Month: Blacks and Labor (00:00:00)

2. Introduction to Mamu: 40+ Years in Birth Work (00:03:11)

3. The Evolution of Doula Work in Hospital Settings (00:07:51)

4. Improving Communication Between Birth Workers (00:14:37)

5. The Intersection of Multiple Birth Work Roles (00:22:18)

6. Changes in Black Maternal Health Advocacy (00:31:19)

7. Technology vs. Human Connection in Healthcare (00:40:34)

8. Career Advice for New Healthcare Professionals (00:45:08)

9. Final Thoughts on Birth Work as a Calling (00:52:45)