Getting Your Hair Braided Before Labor: A Black Woman’s Tradition

Braiding has deep cultural roots within the Black community. It is a practice that transcends generations, symbolizing a connection to ancestry, heritage and identity. It’s no surprise that at a special time like pregnancy, braids are used as a symbol of “readiness” and an anchor of connection to the mothers before.

For black women, sitting between the knees of your relative or going to the beauty salon to get your hair braided left you feeling confident and secure. With all the chaos that can be preparing to bring your baby earthside- sitting and having your hair combed through and delicately twisted, cornrowed, plaited is the last check box before spiritually we say we’re ready to take on labor.

Having your hair braided keeps your focus off what you look like and into the energy that it takes to give birth.

And lastly- we know these box braids will hold up for at least two weeks postpartum. So we got some time before we have to think about our next protective style.

As an honoring to this birthing tradition- Doula Nyirah Jackson has started a birth braiders directory In this directory you can find local braiders for your nearing labor style! With an intent to grow- please share this directory far and wide and with your favorite stylists too!