Program Overview

Our training curriculum is designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge to serve as birth assistants in out-of-hospital settings. Through a combination of didactic education, hands-on skills training, demonstrations, and simulations, participants gain the confidence and competence needed to provide culturally competent care to birthing individuals and their families.

Training Format:

Our training program consists of interactive sessions led by experienced BIPOC midwives who provide mentorship, guidance, and support throughout the learning process. Participants have the opportunity to engage in hands-on practice, group discussions, and case studies to enhance their learning experience.

Certificate and On-going Support:

Upon successful completion of the training program, participants receive a certificate of completion from Legacy Birth Academy. We also offer opportunities for on-going education and professional development to support participants in their journey as birth assistants and future midwives.

Key Topics Covered

  • Communication and Cultural Competency

    Learn effective communication strategies and cultural sensitivity to provide compassionate care to diverse birthing populations.

  • Medication Preparation and Administration

    Overview of common medications used during labor, birth and postpartum, including proper storage, preparation, and administration support for midwives.

  • Assisting in Obstetric Emergencies

    Develop skills in recognizing and responding to obstetric emergencies such as postpartum hemorrhage, shoulder dystocia, and neonatal resuscitation.

  • Advanced Birth Assistant Skills

    Learn advanced skills such as cervical checks, IV setup, suturing assistance, newborn assessments, and emergency response techniques.

  • Herbal Remedies for Pregnancy

    Introduction to safe, effective herbal preparations for pregnancy, labor, and postpartum healing.

  • Trauma Informed Birth Support

    Techniques for providing compassionate care to survivors of trauma and recognizing signs of distress.

  • Spirituality in Birth

    Explore birth rituals and the role of birth assistants in creating and holding sacred space for families’ diverse spiritual paths.

  • Vital Signs

    Hands-on training in assessing and documenting vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and fetal heart rate, to ensure the safety and well-being of birthing individuals and babies.

  • Alternative Practices

    Education on non-traditional birth choices (lotus birth, cord burning, etc) and how to support families choosing these practices.

The Application Process

Our Birth Assistant Training Retreat is an intimate, intensive, and immersive experience designed for those who are already engaged in birthwork and activism within their communities. This retreat is not for beginners—we seek participants with a foundational background in birthwork who are ready to dive in, refine their skills, and get to work.

Because of the limited spaces, we require an application process to ensure that participants are well-prepared for the rigorous and hands-on nature of this training. This retreat is designed to equip birth assistants with both the knowledge and practical skills needed to confidently support birthing individuals during labor and delivery.

By fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment, we aim to empower future birth assistants to serve their communities with cultural competency and confidence.

If you are committed to advancing your skills and deepening your impact in birthwork, we invite you to apply.

If you’re passionate about maternal health, community advocacy, and becoming a birth assistant, we encourage you to apply. Spaces are limited, so submit your application form today to take the next step on this transformative journey.