As a doula, I’ve walked into countless hospital rooms where labor is unfolding in real time—sometimes slowly and peacefully, sometimes quickly and intensely. And almost every time, someone eventually says the same thing:

“I wish I had packed that.”

Packing your birth bag isn’t just about being prepared. It’s about creating a small sense of comfort and familiarity in a space that can feel very clinical and unfamiliar. When labor begins, the last thing you want is to be worrying about socks, phone chargers, or lip balm.

So from a doula who has seen a lot of birth bags—some brilliant and some… a little chaotic—here are the things I gently encourage my clients to bring.

Comfort Items for Labor

Labor is physical, emotional, and often unpredictable. Small comforts can make a big difference.

Comfortable robe or loose gown
Hospital gowns are practical, but many parents feel more relaxed in something that feels like their own clothing. A soft robe is perfect for walking the halls or staying cozy between contractions.

Warm socks or slippers
Labor rooms can get chilly, and warm feet go a long way toward overall comfort.

Lip balm
This is the item that people forget most often. Labor breathing can make your lips incredibly dry, and having lip balm nearby can feel like a tiny lifesaver.

Hair ties or headband
Once labor gets intense, hair in your face becomes very annoying very quickly.

Massage oil or lotion
If your partner or doula is providing back pressure or massage, a little lotion makes it far more comfortable.

Things That Help the Environment

One of the most helpful things you can do in labor is create a calm atmosphere. Hospitals are busy places, but you can still shape the environment around you.

Battery candles or soft lighting
Many hospital rooms are lit with bright fluorescent lights. Soft lighting can make the room feel calmer and more intimate.

A small speaker or playlist
Music can be grounding during labor. Some parents want calm music, others want complete silence—either way, it’s nice to have the option.

Essential oils (if allowed)
A familiar scent like lavender or peppermint can help some people relax or refocus during contractions.

Practical Must-Haves

These are the items that may not be glamorous, but they make life much easier.

Phone charger with a long cord
Hospital outlets are often in inconvenient places. A long charging cable saves a lot of frustration.

Snacks and drinks
Labor can be long. Having easy snacks for your partner—and sometimes for yourself depending on hospital policies—can make a big difference.

Copies of your birth preferences
While many hospitals document these in your chart, it can still be helpful to have a printed copy available for nurses and providers.

Insurance card and ID
Not exciting, but definitely important.

After Baby Arrives

The postpartum hours are tender, emotional, and often a little surreal. Having a few comforts ready helps you settle in.

A comfortable outfit for going home
Choose something soft and loose. Your body will still look about six months pregnant, and comfort is key.

A newborn outfit
Hospitals usually provide basics, but many parents love bringing a special outfit for the first trip home.

A simple toiletry kit
Toothbrush, face wash, deodorant, and a hairbrush can feel surprisingly refreshing after birth.

One Thing I Always Tell My Clients

The truth is, you don’t need a perfectly packed bag to have a beautiful birth. Hospitals provide many essentials, and if something is forgotten, someone can usually grab it.

But thoughtful preparation helps you feel grounded. It allows you to focus on what truly matters—moving through labor, welcoming your baby, and stepping into a moment that will change your life forever.

And from a doula’s perspective, the best thing you can pack in your birth bag isn’t an item at all.

It’s the intention to take your birth one moment at a time.

The post What should I pack in my birth bag? appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

How to Create a Safe, Calm, and Supported Birth Experience

Welcoming your baby at home can feel deeply grounding and powerful. Instead of entering an unfamiliar space, you are preparing to give birth in the place where your life already happens — where you rest, laugh, cry, and feel most like yourself. Because of that, preparing for a homebirth is not only about gathering supplies. It is also about creating an environment where you feel safe enough to surrender to birth.

Many families choose homebirth because they want privacy, autonomy, and comfort. At the same time, thoughtful preparation helps transform your home into a space that supports both the emotional and physical intensity of labor.

Building Your Homebirth Support Team

First, consider who you want surrounding you during birth. The people in your space often shape how safe and supported you feel.

Your team might include a midwife, a doula, your partner, or trusted loved ones. Before labor begins, it helps to talk openly about your hopes, fears, and preferences. When communication is clear ahead of time, it becomes easier to relax and focus inward once labor starts.

Emotional safety often supports physical progress in labor, which makes choosing the right team incredibly important.

Preparing Your Homebirth Space

Rather than focusing on perfection, focus on intention. A homebirth space does not need to look like a magazine photo. Instead, it should feel calming, functional, and easy to move around in.

As you prepare, think about where you naturally relax. For some families, that may be a bedroom. For others, it might be the living room or a space with natural light.

You might include:

• Soft or dim lighting
• Music or calming sounds
• A birth pool or planned labor area
• Pillows and blankets for comfort
• Easy bathroom or shower access

Ultimately, the goal is to create a space that allows you to stay present and undisturbed.

Gathering Your Homebirth Supplies

While your provider will usually give you a supply list, collecting these items can become part of your emotional preparation, too.

Most families gather things like towels, waterproof pads, comfort items, snacks, drinks, and postpartum supplies. By preparing these ahead of time, you reduce stress later and allow yourself to focus fully on labor when the time comes.

Preparing Your Mind and Body

Physical preparation matters, but emotional preparation often makes an equally big difference. Because birth is intense and unpredictable, learning coping tools ahead of time can build confidence.

For example, many parents practice breathing techniques, learn labor positions, or take childbirth education classes. In addition, talking through fears or past experiences can help release tension before labor begins.

Over time, preparation often turns fear into familiarity — and familiarity can feel empowering.

Planning for Postpartum After Homebirth

Although most focus goes to labor, postpartum planning is just as important. After birth, your body needs rest, nourishment, and support.

Before baby arrives, it helps to plan easy meals, arrange household help if possible, and set up newborn supplies. As a result, you can spend more time bonding and less time worrying about daily tasks.

Making Space for Flexibility

Even with careful homebirth preparation, birth can change direction. For that reason, emotionally preparing for multiple possibilities — including transfer if needed — can protect your overall experience.

Flexibility does not weaken a homebirth plan. Instead, it creates resilience and confidence no matter how birth unfolds.

The Heart of Preparing for a Homebirth

At its core, homebirth preparation is about trust. Trust in your body. Trust in your baby. Trust in the people supporting you.

More than anything, it is about turning your home into a place where you feel powerful, safe, and deeply cared for during one of life’s biggest transitions.

No matter where you give birth, you deserve to feel supported, respected, and heard.

The post Preparing for a Homebirth appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

I have had a baby already. I am an experienced mom. Why would I need a doula for my second baby?

Why You Still Need a Doula for Your Second Birth

As I sit here on call, waiting for a family I had the honor of supporting during their first birth, I find myself reflecting on something I hear so often:
“Do I really need a doula for my second baby?”

It’s an honest question. You’ve done this before. You know how contractions feel, what labor might look like, how to breathe through the waves. You’ve experienced the power of birth firsthand.

But here’s what I’ve learned from standing beside families through their first, second, third — even sixth births:

No two births are ever the same.

Just because you’ve given birth before doesn’t mean this birth won’t bring its own emotions, rhythms, or unexpected turns. Your body might remember some of the process — but this body has changed. This baby is different. The circumstances of your life — your heart, your support system, your fears, your hopes — are not the same.

Birth is unpredictable — and that’s exactly why having a doula matters.

You don’t know how your labor will unfold — none of us do. Babies tend to keep their birth plans a secret until the very last moment. Most of the time, things go smoothly… but sometimes they don’t. And when the unexpected happens — physically, emotionally, or both — you deserve someone who can remain calm in the chaos and steady in the storm.

Doulas are trained to handle change.

When things shift, we don’t panic — we adapt.
We help you understand your options, find your voice, and stay grounded through every twist and turn.

You might find yourself exhausted, overwhelmed, or pushed to your emotional edge. Your partner might be, too. That’s when having someone in the room who’s calm, present, and experienced becomes everything — someone who can think clearly, advocate gently, and guide you through the intensity with compassion and strength.

Sometimes, second-time parents feel pressure to “have it all together.” To be the strong one, the experienced one. But birth is not a performance. It’s not about doing it better than last time — or even the same. It’s about surrendering — again — to the unknown, and being fully supported in it.

A doula isn’t there because you’re inexperienced.
A doula is there because you’re human.

We’re there to hold space for your emotions, to protect your environment, and to gently guide your partner in offering meaningful support. We’re there to notice the moments you might miss, to advocate for your wishes, and to keep you anchored when things get intense.

Sometimes second births are faster. Sometimes they’re not.
Sometimes they’re more emotional, more healing, more overwhelming than the first.
And sometimes, the need for continuous, unwavering support is even greater — especially when there’s a toddler at home, past trauma to process, or new fears rising up.

Having a doula isn’t about whether or not you can do it.
Of course you can. You already have.

It’s about knowing you don’t have to do it alone.

The post Do I need a doula for a second baby? appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

Do I have to lie on my back to deliver my baby?

What happens during a hospital labor and birth depends greatly on your advocacy and your OB. It is important for you to speak about options with your OB before you head to the hospital to birth. Making sure they are open to what you want and need is crucial to avoid being super uncomfortable at the hospital. If they are not open to your wishes, it is never too late to find a different OB.

One option to ask your OB is if they are open to birthing in different positions, not just on your back and your legs in stirrups. Now, I have heard OBs say to clients, “Of course you can labor in different positions.” However, that wasn’t your question. Your question is birthing in different positions. That is a HUGE difference. You may end up feeling that your back is the best way for you at the time, but maybe in that moment, it is better if you stand, be on all fours, or be in a side-lying position. An OB should really be the guide and help if there is a complication, and allow you the freedom to birth as you wish. If they are not or are sticklers for being on your back, then you need to decide if that is the right OB for you.

What If I Want Delayed Cord Clamping?

Your idea and your OB’s idea of delayed cord clamping may be vastly different. Again, I believe in hospitals and doctors, and if there is an emergency, there is no other place I would want to be. That said, having babies is a numbers game. Quick in and quick out, make room for the next family. For most OBs (huge generalization here), their idea of cord clamping is about a minute to, at most, 5 minutes. They want to sew you up (if needed for tearing), make sure there is no excess bleeding and move on.

The reason for delayed cord clamping is to allow for the transfer of blood and stem cells from the placenta to the newborn. These benefits include increased blood volume, improved iron stores, and potentially better neurodevelopmental outcomes. So, for these reasons, delayed cord clamping should be done until the cord turns white. That means all the goodies have gone to the baby, and there are none left in the cord. This, generally speaking, is going to be longer than 5 minutes. It could be up to 10 minutes. That is a long time in a doctor’s world. It is important to talk to them before your baby’s birth date. This should be included in your birth preference plan.

What if A Different Doctor is Delivering my Baby?

You may be surprised how often this happens. I would say it is about 50/50, in my experience, that a family’s chosen OB does the actual delivery. It is important that you give and have the on-call OB (as well as the nurses) know that you have a birth preference plan. The on-call OB needs to know your wishes. This is where advocacy for yourself is super important because now you need to start over with this new on-call OB, and make sure you convey the importance of your wishes.

What about the Golden Hour?

After the whirlwind of giving birth, you’ll find yourself in a magical moment of bonding with your new family. There’s a soft hush in the room, punctuated only by the gentle sounds of your newborn’s breaths. For about an hour, you’ll have the precious opportunity to soak in this new reality.

However, the first 15-30 minutes might feel like a bustling hive of activity, with nurses coming in and out, checking vital signs, and ensuring everything is just right. But don’t let that distract you; once those initial flurries settle down, you’ll be left with 30-45 minutes of uninterrupted togetherness. This Golden Hour is generally given unless there is some issue with you or baby.

What about newborn shots?

This is something they will ask if you want. That is entirely up to you.

The vitamin K shot: Newborns have low levels of Vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting.

Eye Drops: Eye drops (often erythromycin) are given to prevent conjunctivitis (eye infection) caused by certain bacteria that can be present during delivery. 

Hepatitis B Vaccine: This vaccine protects against Hepatitis B virus, which can cause liver damage. The first dose is usually given within 24 hours, with subsequent doses at 1-2 months and 6-18 months.

To learn more about vaccines at the hospital, you can follow this link to UCLA Health

In Summery

I truly hope you found Parts I, II, and III helpful. I want to encourage you to consider hiring a doula (like me!) if you ever feel uncertain about navigating the hospital. Having a supportive guide can make all the difference in your experience.

Going solo is absolutely okay, but be mindful of the potential for information overload. It’s easy to get lost in the sea of links and resources, spiraling down a rabbit hole that might leave you feeling overwhelmed. A doula can help you stay focused and ensure you have the right information at the right time.

Investing in this support can provide peace of mind and empower you to make informed decisions throughout your journey. Your experience matters, and having a dedicated advocate by your side could turn what may feel like a daunting journey into a more manageable and positive one. Consider the benefits—it could be the best choice you make!

The post What Really Happens in Labor Part III appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

Ok, So I Might Need Doula Support

Think of a doula as a resource you and your partner can rely on throughout pregnancy, labor, birth, and beyond. A doula can provide physical, emotional, and informational support in many ways.

1. More coping methods: Your doula can suggest ways to help ease the stress and pain of labor. For example, they can show you breathing techniques or help find a more comfortable position as you work through contractions.
2. Fewer interventions: Studies have shown that doulas can decrease the need for assisted vaginal birth and lower the likelihood of a cesarean birth. If you do end up needing a cesarean, a doula can still provide reassurance and support. Your birth doula may even be able to go with you to the operating room, if you wish, instead of a partner or other support person.
3. An unbiased resource: Doulas are trained to point you to evidence-based resources, so you can stay informed and empowered throughout your pregnancy and birth. They can also help you put together your birth plan by asking questions you may not have considered. Do you want the baby placed on your chest right after birth? Will you bank your baby’s umbilical cord blood?
4. An advocate: Once you’re in labor, the doula can be a voice for your birth plan, helping to make your preferences known to your health care team. Your doula can also help you make decisions in the moment. (Sometimes surprises happen, and new choices need to be made.)
5. Another set of hands: A doula can take a little pressure off your partner, family members, and friends.
6. Better communication: Doulas can help navigate confusing situations. They can remind doctors and nurses to explain medical terms and help make sure you always know what is going on.
7. Extra attention: Your doctor and nurses can’t be in the room for every minute of your labor, as they need to tend to other patients. Having a doula there at all times can help you feel relaxed, calm, and fully supported.
8. A more satisfying birth experience: People who use birth doulas often report having a more positive childbirth experience.

This All Sounds Good, But How Much is a Doula?

As with everything, prices will vary from person to person. Depending on where you live, hiring a birth doula can cost between $500 and $2,000 out-of-pocket. If cost is an issue, you can ask about a payment plan. Another option is to hire a doula-in-training, who may offer their services for free or at a reduced rate.

Insurance carriers (including Medicaid) are now starting to cover the cost of a doula. This is great news for everyone. We are getting our due recognition as a true part of the birth team and families are getting costs covered.

You’ve heard “it takes a village” to raise a child. In many ways, that’s true of labor and birth as well. You can have a team of people to support you on this journey, and a birth doula can absolutely be one of them. If you would like to know more about my doula offerings, please feel free to contact me here.

The post Is a Birth Doula Necessary? appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

If you are planning a holistic natural waterbirth with a medicine woman using anointing oil and chanting children who are smudging your space with sacred white sage, plans can and will change. Without thought and some preparation (like a list of preferences), something that derails in your plan can set your mind on fire and fill you with fear. Even if the hospital cannot grant some of your preferences, the mere fact that you know what may happen in each scenario will put you at ease, lessen fear and allow you to accept a birth story that is different from your envisioned one.

Does a doula help with birth plan preferences?

Yes. A hundred percent yes. I would be leery of a doula who doesn’t go over all scenarios. If your doula is simply writing down all your wants and then putting it on a nice sheet of paper for your doctor or midwife and neglecting to go over alternative scenarios, then they may be doing you a disservice. You should know what may happen in X scenario or Y scenario or even Z scenario.

Won’t I be sad if my birth doesn’t go to plan?

Firstly, remember there is no plan. There are preferences.

Secondly, if you have your heart set on a specific plan and it goes sideways and no thought has been put in to alternate scenarios, you may be sad. That’s not really for me to say. What I will say, is the better prepared you are, the less likely fear and anxiety will take hold should things go differently than what you envision.

Let me explain what I mean by preferences for different scenarios. Below is a quick example of a birth plan that I tend to use. What is in each category is entirely up to you. This is one I used for a recent hospital birth.

After the preliminaries such as who the birth person is, their support people, the EDD, allergies, etc., it looks something like this-

Labor Preferences

We wish to have a calm hospital birth. We will be using hypnobirthing techniques therefore
environment and language is very important to us. We would appreciate not using the words pain and
contraction and use surge , strength, power and intensity.

Monitoring

Intermittent monitoring is requested and preferably with a wireless unit so I can maintain mobility.

Environment

Sight- It is very important that the lights be dimmed throughout labor with use of electric tealights
and/or Fairy lights. Our doula and photographer will be taking photographs. She does have a flash unit
and if it causes distruption in my labor, she will turn it off.
Sound- We have our own music soundtrack.
Smell- We will have essential oils.
Touch- I may use a Tens machine during early labor. I will be wearing a hospital gown.
Taste- I plan to eat and drink normally. I will be bringing snacks and drinks to the hospital.

Pain Relief

Please remind me of the tools I do have which include my breathing techniques, visualizations,
massage, heat pack and cold pack, positive affirmations and shower. Please do not offer pain relief
as I will ask when it is needed.
Additionally I do not want any opioid pain medications, but will consider an epidural only if I am unable
to rest or unable to progress due to discomfort. I would like a “walking epidural” if possible to retain
some movement and awareness.

During Birth

Ideally I do not wish to be lying on my back. I would like to be in a position that promotes
UFO–upright, forward and open which facilitates a quicker and easier birth.
I do not wish to be coached to push, but rather follow the lead of my body and breathe baby down
so baby is born gently and calmly.

After Birth

I would like baby brought to my chest immediately after. If that is not a possibility, I would like my
partner to do skin to skin.
It is important for the environment to remain calm after baby has been born.
I would like delayed cord clamping until all the blood has gone to baby.

Assisted Delivery

Unless there is a medical Emergency

I would rather wait longer, than rush the process.
Unless the baby is in distress, I prefer to obstain from the use of any aggressive measures
including vacuum or forceps. There would need to be a significant medical need for
an episiotomy.

Unplanned Cesarean

I would like to request a gentle cesarean.
I would like to receive my baby to my chest immediately before cleaning or weighing.
Please ensure any electrodes are placed on back to not inhibit this important skin to skin time.
I would like to request delayed cord clamping.
I would like to see my baby being born, so please lower the curtain or have clear draping.
I would like the lights dimmed at the head end, so when baby is brought to my chest,
baby is not subjected to a bright light.

I would like my choice of music played in theater.
If baby needs to go to the NICU, then I want to be able to care for him/her as much as possible and
use my breast milk. I would like help to make sure this happens.

Anything Else

This is where you can put your desire to have the Vitamin K injection, eye ointment, or the HepB vaccine.

Thank you

Thank you for taking the time to read our birth preferences. I am looking forward to the birth of my
baby and planning for a positive and empowering birth experience. I believe this is possible however
my birth plays out. Thank you for supporting us in this very special time in our lives.

Will a hospital pay attention to my birth plan preferences?

It has been my experience that the nurses will read your birth preference and most midwives and OBs. Most are very happy to have it, but some are outliers and feel it is a waste. Will they be able to accommodate everything you have written? Not likely, but it is important that your support person has a vested interest in what it says so they can advocate for you when your energy is elsewhere. The way the above is written is non threatening, lets them know you have done your research and that you are prepared for different scenarios. I like to add the thank you at the end, reminding them they are appreciated, but it is your birth.

I hope this was helpful for you. If you have any questions or are think about a doula (and birth photographer!), feel free to contact me and learn more.

The post Are Birth Plans Reliable? appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

Now, this birth was with two very special humans who I like to call new friends. October 4th was this little lady’s first day breathing air. Mom and Dad had some very specific requests. Hospital trauma is real and should never be confused with simply “not liking hospitals”. Trauma and reactions to it are visceral and can physically manifest. Doing everything possible to minimize additional trauma with childbirth was a task both the partner and I took on. I learned so much as their doula and photographer about managing trauma and feelings of crisis.

The partner showed me techniques they use called EFT Tapping for anxiety. He used it during labor quite effectively. There is not a ton that can be done with a hospital room setting, but going in beforehand, seeing the space and using visualization techniques were helpful. Letting them know exactly what to expect in the room and who to expect in the room was useful. Hospital birthing rooms can become quite crowded when pushing begins. Special essential oils were incorporated, low lighting and electric candles were brought in to make the space comfortable. One thing I always feel is essential is purchasing your own hospital gown. These gowns give the same access to doctors and nurses, but they feel better, look better and don’t remind you of being in a hospital.

The birth preferences for this beautiful momma didn’t go to plan exactly as written, but it was close and she has an amazingly beautiful little girl.

Ready to inquire about labor support and birth photography? Doesn’t cost anything to send a message to me. Talk to you soon!

The post A Pasadena Birth story: Huntington Hospital appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

I am currently a doula and birth photographer (doulatog) to a wonderful couple in San Diego. Recognizing mom was worried about how she would know which stage of labor she was in, prompted me to write. I drew up an easy to read document that outlined labor stages and how to recognize them. I hope you find in beneficial.

WHAT IS PRE LABOR AND HOW WILL I KNOW I AM IN IT?

–Contractions are neither consistent nor build in intensity.

–It’s an exciting time, but don’t obsess. Go to lunch. Go to a movie. Relax, this can last a while.

–Call you doula

WHAT IS EARLY LABOR AND HOW WILL I KNOW I AM IN IT?

–contractions get more consistent and closer together–predictable.

–you may have a bit of blood or mucus when you go to the bathroom. You may have lost your mucus plug.

–your water may break

–time to really breath during the contractions. The Destresser Breath-In through your nose filling your belly 4 seconds and out through your mouth for 6 seconds. Repeat 4 times calmly. Sit on the birth ball, sway with your partner. Lean over birth ball. Whatever you are comfortable with.

MOVING INTO ACTIVE LABOR AND HOW DO I KNOW I AM IN IT?

–Contractions 3-4 minutes apart and growing in intensity.

–Time to go to the hospital

–The 4-1-1 rule. The contractions are every 4 minutes, lasting 1 minute over the course of an hour.

–mom may feel very emotional at this point, but remain calm, baby is coming!

–continue to breath with the technique above through the contractions. Sway with partner, use birth ball, rebozo and anything that is helpful for you.

WHAT IS ACTIVE LABOR AND HOW DO I KNOW I AM IN IT?

–contractions getting intense and you are dilating from 6-8 centimeters. You will be in the hospital.

–use swaying techniques, breathing, birth ball, squats, rebozo, aromatherapy, visualization, shower, counterpressure and toilet to help you.

WHAT IS TRANSITION AND HOW DO I KNOW I AM IN IT?

–This is the most intense part of labor but the shortest. The end is near!

–You are going from 8-10 centimeters.

–Contractions are practically on top of each other.

–You may feel the need to poop–this means baby is coming!

–You may feel the need to push and bear down. Please resist that urge as you could possibly tear.

–If you don’t feel that urge, try to continue the same breathing pattern you have been. If you do feel the urge-do the shallow “hee, hee, hoo, hoo” breaths

IS IT TIME TO PUSH BABY OUT AND HOW WILL I KNOW?

–your doctor or midwife will know when you are 10 centimeters and will instruct you to push.

–baby may be crowing at this point.

–Don’t hold your breath while you push as it can cause tearing. Breathe your baby out. Breath in, ideally through your nose, and breathe out to push with a guttural moan.

The post What are the Stages of Labor? appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

Our job starts far before you go into labor. A doula meets with you and your partner a couple times before the big event. We are there to listen and answer any questions you may have and if we don’t have the answer, we’ll find it. A doula may help you with exercises to prepare for birth, aid you in writing your birth plan or show your partner how they can enjoy the birth process as well.

Doulas serve as someone you can call if you have doubts or questions. You can call your doula to ask a question that comes up, to get words of strength and reassurance or talk you “off the ledge”.

During your birth, we are there with you. Your doula comes when you need her Your doula comes when you need her. Using emotional, physical and informational support, a doula helps you maintain a sense of control, comfort, and confidence. Doulas may use touch, massage or counter pressure to ease the birthing person. Even the best laid plans have a way of going sideways and a doula can help you understand the process or what a doctor or midwife is saying.

What A doula is not

A doula is not a medical worker. We do not give medical advice, supervise a birth or prescribe any medications. The Doula is there to bridge the gap between medical professionals and expectant parents. They do not make medical decisions, but they do explain medical procedures to the parents when they are necessary.

The post What is a doula? appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

Since 2020 put the kibosh on so many sessions, I took this time to study…and study…oh, and study some more! Finally two weeks ago, I became certified birth doula through Mardiella.

What Is a Birth Doula?

“A Doula, or childbirth assistant, is a labor support person who has specific training and experience in providing informational, emotional, and physical support during the childbearing experience, especially during labor and immediately after the birth”.

The Five areas of doula support are:

1. Emotional Support
2. Physical Support
3. Informational Support
4. Partner Reinforcement
5. Self-Advocacy

Emotional Support

There is so much going on with an expectant mother, the very first thing we, as doulas, will do is listen. I mean really listen, without judgement or thinking about what to say. Actively listening and holding space for a mother to express herself is so important.

In a nutshell, “Emotional support is being able to identify what another person is feeling with accuracy and is able to respond in an appropriate, compassionate, and empathetic manner.”

Evidence shows that the best kind of support during birth is someone who knows about birth, is unaffiliated with the hospital, and is also not a member of the birthing person’s family. You do not have to worry about offending a doula as you might with a family member. If the birth plan begins to deviate, doulas are an extra person that can answer questions if staff gets too busy to answer.

Physical Support

A doula provides physical support primarily during labor, but also by demonstrating positioning and massage techniques that can be used by the partner before labor begins.

There are different touch and massage techniques a doula can use, depending on what the mother finds helpful. As labor progresses, the doula may cradle the woman in her arms, wipe her brow, massage her and use other forms of touch as she educates her about what is happening to her body and in the birth of her child. She can instruct the partner or birth companion in doing the same, helping him or her to soothe the mother.

Informational Support

As your doula, we would meet at least once before the birthing day. You can ask and express as much or as little as you want. Maybe you would like information about where to birth? Perhaps you have concerns about pain and pain management options or you need help writing out your birth plan.

Informational support helps keep the birthing person and their partner informed about what’s going on with the course of labor, as well as provides them with access to evidence-based information about birth options. 

Partner Reinforcement

Despite the quality and amount of childbirth classes and preparations they have made, partners are sometimes nervous about the labor and birthing process.

The presence of a Doula can help birth partners participate at their own comfort level; showing them how and when to use various comfort techniques, providing information, and in some cases, looking after them as well. Partners are often grateful to be able to share the “coaching” responsibility with someone more experienced, and can therefore, enjoy the birth experience more themselves.

Self advocacy

Self advocacy means that we (the doula) empowers a woman to speak up for herself in the delivery room. We do not speak on your behalf.

When births moved from home to hospitals the mothers lost much of the control they had in the birth arena. They became patients having procedures done to them instead of women in control of a process that is a natural function of their bodies.

Even in a hospital a woman can be in control, or can at least feel like she has more control if the doula helps her state her wishes in a clear and realistic manner.

Advocacy can take many forms—most of which do not include speaking on behalf of the client. They include:

• Encouraging the birthing person or their partner to ask questions and verbalize their preferences
• Asking the birthing person what they want
• Supporting the birthing person’s decision
• Amplifying the mother’s voice if she is being dismissed, ignored, or not heard, “Excuse me, she’s trying to tell you something. I wasn’t sure if you heard her or not.”
• Facilitating communication between the parents and care providers
• Teaching the birthing person and partner positive communication techniques

What a Doula is Not

A doula is not a medical worker. We do not give medical advice, supervise a birth or prescribe any medications. The Doula is there to bridge the gap between medical professionals and expectant parents. They do not make medical decisions, but they do explain medical procedures to the parents when they are necessary.

Becoming a Los Angeles Birth Doula

There are many training and certifying doula associations. Since the doula profession is not regulated, they are all just as officially valid as the other. However, some of them are bigger, better known and are seen as more legitimate in the profession. Some of them respond to particular needs or niches in the birth community. 

I chose Madriella. Madriella is a licensed, certified online doula training facility that offers several different types of certifications. You can also get hands-on training given by approved workshop providers, experienced doulas that want to pass on their knowledge to other women (which is the heart of the Madriella philosophy).

If you would like to talk about adding doula services to your birth photography package, message me and I will be happy to talk with you. Having a Los Angeles birth doula can not be underestimated!

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