How and where it all started.

 

Timeline

 
 

In 2012 while stationed in Okinawa, Japan, Amanda Dodson, a doula and military spouse observed first hand the challenges and gaps in support many expecting military families experienced overseas. With the support of fellow military spouses, supportive community members and other birth professionals, the Japan Birth Resource Network was formed to provide a place for military families stationed on Okinawa and Iwakuni to benefit from doula support.

 

In 2016 the Military Birth Resource Network was established as a 501(c)3. The idea was to build on what JBRN had created and make an impact at every duty station across the globe. This came to fruition when Amanda met Linda Herrick. Through Linda’s experience as a doula trainer and personally observing the needs of military families during the pregnancy period, it became evident that these families had to have additional support during this incredibly important time in their lives.  An international organization was developed to provide support and resources for military families during pregnancy, labor, birth, postpartum, and the infant feeding period.

 

Through 2016 - 2021 the Military Birth Resource Network built a directory of birth professionals supporting military families around the world. Chapters were established and ran by military spouses and military birth professionals passionate about supporting families at their location. Chapters and their members filled the gaps in care through doulas support, lactation, childbirth eduction while providing a place for families to connect with others, learn more about resources and birth options.

 

In 2021 The Tricare Childbirth and Breastfeeding Demonstration Act was launched. This program prompted and confirmed a needed shift. It became apparent there were also many other areas in care where voices are not being heard. It became clear not one doula or any other birth professional supporting the military community was invited to have a seat at the table for the development of this demonstration.

In 2022, the Military Birth Resource Network made a pivot to become the Military Birth Resource Network and Postpartum Coalition. Expanding the mission to support healthy, safe, and satisfying pregnancies, births, and postpartum experiences through advocacy and policy that prioritizes equity in access to birth options, lactation education and support, mental health care and culturally competent care for military families across the globe.