I see birth as one of the most vulnerable times in a woman and her newborn baby's life, and desire to minister to the families I serve spiritually, physically, and emotionally. Your birth is important and impacts you in many ways.

SO, what does a doula do exactly?

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SO, what does a doula do exactly? 〰️

A doula’s role is very unique and important.

Doulas are professionally trained women who thoroughly understand the pregnancy and birth process and provide emotional, physical, and spiritual support during pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period, from a non-medical and non-biased point of view.

Sometimes also referred to as “birth companions” or “birth coaches,” a doula is a continual support person who remains by your side throughout the entire birthing process.

The use of the word “doula” is newer, but the concept of birth work–and of being present for fellow community members in birth–is a longstanding shared cultural practice, rooted deep in human histories.

My role as your doula may include…

  • Educating you or your family about the birthing process, how long to expect each phase of labor to last, and reasons why medical staff may propose medical interventions.

  • Suggesting techniques in labor, like movement, and positioning (positioning is important both with and without epidurals), breathing, and mindset.

  • Helping you find evidence-based information about different options in pregnancy and childbirth.

  • Helping explain medical procedures before or while they occur.

  • Bringing a bag full of supplies to aid in comfort measures and supports while in labor.

  • Encouraging you or your husband to ask questions and speak up about your preferences.

  • Facilitating clear communication and a sense of collaboration between you and your care providers.

  • Creating space and time for you and your husband to ask questions, gather evidence-based information, and make decisions without feeling pressured.

  • Communicating with additional family members or friends who have come to visit to explain what is happening, how they can support, and when is the best time to enter the birth room (or why it may be best to wait!).

What I don’t do…

  • I do not take over the role of the husband.

  • I do not promise that your birth plan is going to go exactly as planned.

  • I do not give medical advice or diagnose conditions.

  • I do not perform clinical tasks such as cervical exams or fetal heart monitoring.

  • I do not make decisions for the client (medical or otherwise).

  • I do not pressure mom or dad into certain choices based on preference or experiences.

  • I do not catch the baby.

What’s in my doula bag???

  • Rebozo

  • TENS Unit

  • Honey Sticks

  • Essential oils + diffuser

  • Wireless Speaker

  • Birthing combs

  • Hand-held fan

  • Personalized scripture encouragement cards

  • Protein-Rich snacks

  • Breastfeeding support tools

    + more upon request

My main desire and goal as a doula is to encourage moms and dads to invite Him into every moment throughout each step of the way.

Choose to make this miraculous event of birth (no matter how you choose to or what it ends up looking like) a time of surrender and worship in all you say, think, and do with the purpose of glorifying Him. 

Am I there to assist with the physical supports and encouragement that is needed in labor and birth?

Yes

Do I greatly desire for you to have an incredible birth that fulfills your hopes and desires and will try to help you achieve that?

Of course.

And…my main assignment from the Lord is to be used to encourage you spiritually. Cover you, your husband, and your baby in prayer, remind you of the unshakeable truth that is found in the gospel, and aid in creating space for worship.

If you’re interested in digging more into the statistics behind having a doula, click here.