Welcome to Wombs of the World
Transforming Birthwork Through Global Connection
Empowering Birthworkers.
Bridging Cultures.
Transforming Maternal Health.
Join us to explore the intersection of tradition and innovation in maternal care, all while fostering meaningful, ethical connections with communities across the globe.
Why Travel With Us?
At Wombs of the World, travel is more than an adventure—it’s a calling. Our immersive programs are designed to deepen your skills as a birthworker while connecting you with the rich traditions of maternal care worldwide.
What You’ll Experience:
Learn time-honored midwifery and modern techniques from local experts.
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Gain hands-on experience in culturally diverse maternal healthcare settings.
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Build bridges between birthworkers worldwide to create lasting change.
Every journey with us supports sustainable, community-led maternal health initiatives, ensuring your impact goes beyond borders.
EXPLORE OUR PROGRAMS
México Program
NEXT TRIP: 12th to 22nd of May, 2025
Dance, learn, and grow in the heart of Oaxaca.
From the vibrant streets of Mexico City to the culturally rich hills of Oaxaca, explore the intersection of womb care, plant medicine, and traditional birth practices. This program is a celebration of learning and joy.
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Participate in workshops led by Indigenous healers.
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Dive into the history and artistry of Mexican traditions.
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Experience the vibrant energy of Oaxaca through its food, music, and ceremonies.
South Africa Program
NEXT TRIP: April 5 - 16, 2025
Discover the sacred connection between birth, culture, and the land.
Join Dr. Mmatshilo Motsei and South African matriarchs for an immersive journey into the spiritual and cultural dimensions of birthwork. Through ceremonies, workshops, and community visits, explore traditional practices that blend ancient wisdom with modern birth justice.
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Participate in transformative ceremonies, including drumming in ancient caves and water rituals at waterfalls.
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Learn from indigenous midwives and healers in rural villages.
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Explore South Africa’s rich culture, from sustainable farming to vibrant local markets.
Tanzania Program
NEXT TRIP: JANUARY 11 - 21, 2025
Discover hands-on learning and cultural immersion.
In Tanzania, work alongside local midwives and healthcare professionals in rural clinics while engaging in meaningful cultural exchange with the Maasai community. Participate in our mobile clinic project and witness the impact of maternal health programs designed for sustainability.
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Assist in clinical settings to support under-resourced facilities.
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Learn from local traditions, such as Maasai beadwork and storytelling.
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Cap off your journey with a breathtaking safari adventure.
Ecuador Program
NEXT TRIP: NOVEMBER 20 - 30, 2025
Step into the sacred traditions of midwifery.
Partner with traditional midwives like Martha and Luzmila to explore the ancestral practices that honor the sacredness of birth. Through ceremonies and hands-on workshops, connect with the wisdom of Ecuador’s Andean highlands.
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Participate in ceremonies that honor the mother and Mother Earth.
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Learn about plant medicine and traditional healing techniques.
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Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and landscapes of Ecuador.
What Sets Us Apart?
A Responsible Approach to Global Birthwork
At Wombs of the World, we redefine what it means to travel as a birthworker. We believe in ethical, sustainable travel. Unlike traditional "voluntourism," our programs prioritize collaboration with local communities, ensuring respect, mutual growth, and meaningful contributions to maternal health.
Our Core Values:
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Birthwork as Global Social Justice Work:
We believe birthwork intersects with justice, equity, and inclusion. Through cultural humility, a reproductive justice lens, and an evidence-based approach, we empower participants to challenge oppressive systems while uplifting diverse voices and practices in maternal care. -
Sustainability Through Community-Led Initiatives:
Our programs invest directly in the communities we visit, prioritizing long-term partnerships with local organizations. From funding midwifery schools to supporting health clinics, the majority of tuition fees go toward sustaining these life-changing projects. -
Global Maternal Health Advocacy:
Every journey is part of a greater mission to improve maternal health outcomes worldwide. By equipping birthworkers with tools to support safe, respectful, and culturally competent care, we aim to dismantle disparities in reproductive health. -
Education That Values Indigenous Knowledge:
Learning from traditional midwives and Indigenous healers reclaims ancestral wisdom often lost to medicalization. These teachings contribute to a global narrative of maternal care that values knowledge outside Western hierarchies and honors its sacred origins. -
Travel as a Tool for Connection and Change:
We challenge the harmful impacts of tourism by working directly with community partners—most of whom are traditional midwives—and investing in their wisdom and infrastructure. Our approach dismantles toxic saviorism and celebrates ethical, mindful exploration.
Who Should Join Us?
Opportunities for All in Maternal Health
At Wombs of the World, we welcome anyone dedicated to improving maternal health outcomes and engaging with global birthwork. We use the term “birthworker” as an inclusive umbrella, encompassing a diverse range of professionals and advocates.
Who is a Birthworker?
Birthworkers may include:
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Doulas and Midwives providing direct support to birthing individuals.
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Labor and Delivery Nurses seeking cross-cultural experiences in maternal care.
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OB/GYNs and Medical Professionals eager to deepen their understanding of traditional practices.
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Childbirth Educators and Lactation Consultants broadening their perspectives on global maternal health.
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Reproductive Justice Advocates committed to equity and inclusion in birthwork.
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Students and Emerging Professionals starting their journey in maternal health with a global lens.
Whether you’re seasoned in your field or just beginning, our programs offer an unparalleled opportunity to grow, connect, and make a meaningful impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am a new doula without any experience yet... Do I qualify?
Absolutely! Our Ecuador program is a perfect fit for new doulas. It offers tools and insights to help you start your journey in birthwork.
For the Tanzania program, we prefer participants with some experience, as the clinics can be intense. However, new doulas have successfully joined and found it to be a transformative kick-start to their careers. After applying, our info session and interview process will help determine if the Tanzania program is the right fit for you.
I am not a doula but a [student midwife, L&D nurse, lactation consultant, perinatal therapist, NICU nurse, etc.]... Do I qualify?
Absolutely! We welcome a variety of birthworkers and maternal health professionals.
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For Ecuador, all backgrounds are welcome to engage in cultural and educational immersion.
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For Tanzania, if you wish to practice clinically, you’ll need additional medical insurance (which we can guide you through). Alternatively, you can attend in the supportive role of a doula, respecting scope of practice.
If your primary goal is clinical immersion, there are medical mission programs that might better align with your expectations.
I have no travel experience. Is that okay?
Yes! We love hosting first-time travelers. From the moment you arrive to the time you leave, we handle all logistics to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Just be sure to have your passport ready!
I am interested in becoming a doula. Which programs do you recommend?
While Wombs of the World plans to offer a Global Birthkeeping Course in the future, we recommend exploring established training programs that align with your goals. Some great options include:
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Ancient Song Doula Services
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Cornerstone Birthwork Training
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Evidence Based Birth
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Innate Traditions
We’d be happy to discuss your interests further to guide you!
Do you offer scholarships?
Yes, we aim to make our programs accessible! Our current scholarship funding comes from application fees. Scholarships are distributed based on availability and need.
New Opportunity: Our Affiliate Program
We’ve launched an affiliate program that allows you to earn money for your travel by selling courses from Wombs of the World. Share these valuable resources with your community and earn commissions to help fund your trip. It’s a win-win—supporting maternal health education while making your participation more accessible.
Additionally, we offer:
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Fundraising workshops to help you raise travel funds.
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Flexible payment plans tailored to meet your financial situation.
Can I bring my family?
While our programs are designed specifically for birthworkers and maternal health professionals, families are welcome to join you before or after the program. We’re happy to recommend accommodations and travel plans to make your extended stay in the country memorable.
What do program fees cover?
Your program fees are all-inclusive and cover:
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Cultural and Educational Programming: Immersive learning from traditional midwives, local healthcare providers, and community leaders.
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All-Inclusive Meals: Delicious, healthy meals prepared with care, ensuring you’re nourished throughout the journey.
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Staff Support: Access to our dedicated, experienced team who handle logistics, cultural sensitivity training, and participant care.
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Accommodations and Transportation: Comfortable lodging and all in-country transportation, from the moment you step out of the airport to your return drop-off.
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Direct Community Investment: A portion of your fees funds local initiatives, midwives, and clinics, sustaining their work long-term.
What’s the time commitment for each program?
All programs (except South Africa) are 10 nights, 11 days. During this time, we provide a seamless experience from airport pickup to drop-off. South Africa’s program details will vary and will be shared closer to launch.
How does Wombs of the World ensure cultural sensitivity?
We prioritize long-term, respectful collaborations with local communities, ensuring our impact is sustainable and mutually beneficial. We also guide participants on cultural humility and respectful practices before and during the program.
Can I apply if I don’t identify as a woman?
Yes! Wombs of the World is inclusive of all gender identities and welcomes anyone passionate about birthwork and maternal health.
