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Refilling My Cup at the CAPPA 2026 Convening: Connection, Community, and the Future of Perinatal Care

There are moments in this work that remind you exactly why you chose this path. Attending the CAPPA 2026 Convening was one of those moments.

As someone who has spent more than 16 years serving families through maternal and child health, conferences are more than continuing education. They are places where ideas grow, friendships form, and purpose is renewed. This year’s convening was filled with wisdom, laughter, heartfelt conversations, and the kind of energy that reminds you none of us are doing this work alone.

One of my favorite parts of the experience was connecting with birth workers from across the country. While it was wonderful to meet colleagues from my own region, it was equally inspiring to share space with professionals who traveled from all over the United States. Every conversation offered a new perspective, a different approach, or a reminder that although our communities may look different, our mission remains the same: helping families experience healthier pregnancies, births, postpartum journeys, and beyond.

The diversity of knowledge in the room was incredible. Doulas, lactation professionals, childbirth educators, nurses, therapists, mental health providers, public health leaders, midwives, and advocates each brought unique expertise to the conversation. It was a beautiful reminder that perinatal care is strongest when we embrace collaboration across disciplines rather than working in silos.

There was something special about the atmosphere throughout the conference. You could feel the passion in every presentation, every networking conversation, and every shared story. There was joy. There was laughter. There were honest discussions about the challenges our profession faces alongside hopeful conversations about where maternal health is headed.

Most importantly, there was connection.

As birth workers, we spend so much of our time pouring into others that we sometimes forget the importance of having spaces that pour back into us. CAPPA created that space. I left feeling encouraged, inspired, and genuinely seen among professionals who understand both the privilege and responsibility of supporting families during some of life’s most transformative moments.

A Meaningful Milestone: Presenting at CAPPA 2026

This year’s convening held another unforgettable milestone for me. I had the privilege of serving as a presenter.

As a Maternal Wellness Educator, Certified Postpartum Doula, Childbirth Educator, Lactation Counselor, and public health professional, I presented:

“Beyond the Visit: How Postpartum Doulas Can Become Essential Members of the Maternal Health Care Team.”

The presentation explored how postpartum doulas can improve maternal health outcomes by:

• Strengthening collaboration with healthcare providers

• Providing continuity of care after birth

• Supporting the early recognition of maternal warning signs

• Connecting families with appropriate community resources and referrals

• Delivering compassionate, family-centered care that complements the medical team

Sharing this message with fellow birth professionals was an incredible honor because I truly believe postpartum doulas are not simply an “extra” service. We are an important part of the maternal healthcare ecosystem, helping bridge the gap between clinical care and the realities families face once they return home.

The thoughtful questions, conversations, and encouragement that followed reminded me just how committed our community is to advancing maternal health together.

Learning Never Stops

No matter how long you’ve been doing this work, there is always something new to learn.

I left CAPPA with fresh ideas, renewed motivation, and practical strategies that will continue to strengthen the education and support we provide through Latched on Hope & Wellness. Our families deserve providers who remain lifelong learners, and I am grateful to be part of a profession that values growth as much as service.

Couldn’t Attend in Person?

One of the best parts about this year’s convening is that you can still learn from many of the incredible presentations through virtual access.

If you’re a birth worker, healthcare professional, student, or simply passionate about improving maternal health, I highly recommend taking advantage of the virtual option.

🎥 Virtual attendees receive lifetime access to the conference sessions.

Use my referral code GALISSA to receive $50 off your registration until 8/31/2026

Register here: https://www.cappa.net/a/2148296547/X46Piw2C

Affiliate Disclosure

I may earn a small commission if you register through my affiliate link, at no additional cost to you. I only share opportunities and educational resources that I genuinely believe benefit birth workers, healthcare professionals, and the maternal health community.

Thank you to CAPPA, every presenter, every attendee, every volunteer, and every birth worker who continues showing up with compassion, curiosity, and commitment.

Together, we’re building stronger support systems for families, one connection at a time.

With gratitude,

Galissa Jones

Maternal Wellness Educator | PCB Perinatal Doula |  Certified Postpartum Doula |  Trained Birth Doula |  Certified Childbirth Educator | Certified Lactation Counselor | Public Health Professional

Latched on Hope & Wellness