The Luna Maya Birth Center was established as a Mexican non-governmental organization in August of 2004 as a center to ensure the right to access to sexual and reproductive services that were completely based on women’s rights. What is unique about the birth center is that it is the only organization in Southern Mexico that works on the humanization of birth and ensures access through midwifery services. The center was established by midwives in response to governmental initiatives to eliminate home birth, reduce birth attendance by midwives and medicalize childbirth practices.
In order to provide a safe space for childbirth the Luna Maya birth center was established. Additionally, the birth center is useful as a training site for new midwives following the National Association for Registered Midwives (NARM) apprenticeship model and a curriculum based on the National Midwifery Institute. From 2005 to 2008 we worked alongside 55 traditional midwives in the indigenous area of Tenejapa through the Metik U training program. This program aimed to empower traditional midwives as community leaders as well as train them on basic life saving skills and safe birth practices. In 2008-2009 13 Traditional Midwives were selected for advanced clinical training through a grant funded by the Seva Foundation.
Our mission is to ensure that all women in Chiapas have access to safe and humane birth. We believe that women in Chiapas have the right to make informed choices about their bodies and have access to the necessary resources to ensure their health and wellbeing. We believe in access to safe motherhood as a human right, which will contribute to the empowerment of women, the enhancement of quality of life and the strengthening of families.
As an organization we adhere strictly to our original mission statement. Through the education programs both with local women and families and with traditional midwives we work hard to inform women about their choices and about informed consent in every process. We utilize adult learning techniques focused on self exploration, mind-body therapeutic techniques and circles of knowledge. We attend humanized and safe birth and provide an extensive support program for new families, through our support groups, midwifery, pediatric and alternative care providers.
How can women join your organization?
Women can join our organization by getting in touch with us through our website: www.lunamaya.org, our email: lunamayamexico@gmail.com or per phone (+52-967) 678 3321
How will you let your organization know about International Women's Day?
This year on March 8th, for the International Women’s Day we are launching our Campaign “For a Loving, free, conscious and safe birth” at the Cultural Center Tierradentro in San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas.
