Doulas are not a Luxury “How Doulas Have A Huge, Positive Impact On C-Section Rates”
"What our study showed is that [lower odds of a C-section] don't come with wanting a doula; it's having a doula that is actually associated with important and substantial risk reductions," Kozhimannil said. The cost of hiring a doula for people without private...
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Confessions of a Wildly Successful Doula
My name is Lesley Everest, and I am a wildly successful doula. Success means different things to different people. When I speak of success, I don't mean that I've struck it rich and dash off on a private jet to exotic vacation spots whenever I want. I honour that...
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5 Essential Ways to Help your Partner Give Birth
Dads and Moms who are about to witness their partner give birth often have many concerns. As a childbirth educator, doula, and friend I have been asked by over a thousand concerned birth partners: "What is the best way for me to help?" It doesn't matter where you...
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Is my Baby a Jerk?
You have the most amazing baby in the world. You are SO in love with this bundle of joy. Those eyelashes nestled fan-like, ever so delicately upon his face as he sleeps....those little hands...the thigh chub...utter perfection! We know your gratitude knows no...
read moreFive Tips for Birthworkers Dealing with Challenging Client Choices
It happens to every one of us in our careers where we will feel challenged and triggered by some of the choices a client makes for themselves. How can we continue to serve in the best way possible? 1) Receive Sit with what your client is saying in a receptive way....
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Don’t Give Me My Baby: Bonding After Normal Birth
There is an old video from Brazil called "Birth in the Squatting Position". This video, made in the 70's, got under my skin in a huge way and took my studies, explorations, and ruminations upon birth to a whole new level. It is not the squatting aspect of the mothers...
read more7 Steps to Owning Your Hospital Birth
You're about to give birth in a hospital. Perhaps you're a bit nervous about how you will be treated, or about what kinds of things the health care providers are going to do with your body while you are in the throes of labour. As a doula, I attend birth in every...
read moreWhat it Means to be a Doula. Happy World Doula Week!
I want to take this opportunity to wish all the doulas on the planet a Happy World Doula Week! When I began this work over 21 years ago, I was a pioneer in my town, forging connections and laying foundations. When I look at the thriving doula communities we have now,...
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