Just call me Tanya The Doula! Ever heard of the phrase “slow and steady wins the race?” Unless you’ve been living under a rock, I’m sure you have. There was a time a couple of years ago where I had no idea what my purpose in life was. Although I had an idea, of course, I allowed doubt and fear to creep in. I now know that my purpose in life is to be of service to others; it’s who I am.

I mentioned the phrase “slow and steady wins the race” because it means if you work slow and are consistent, you will succeed better. My friends, this is what I’ve been doing. I have not accomplished all of my goals, but I’ve been working on them slowly and have been accomplishing some as time goes by.

This brings me to today’s post. I know you’ve seen the title, so you’re wondering why I was saying all of that instead of getting to the point, Ha! Last week was national Doula week, so I think this is the perfect time to announce to you and the world my newest accomplishment and business venture. I’ve had a keen interest in Maternal and Child Health for a while, and that interest was sparked even more as I pursued my Public Health degree. I’ve done many research on maternal health, especially among the African American community, and that prompted me to think of ways I can give back and help. I decided to do that by becoming a Doula. Last September, I trained to become a Doula. It has been one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. 

WHAT IS A DOULA?

For those of you who don’t know what a Doula is. A Doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a mother before, during, and shortly after childbirth to help her achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible. (DONA.org). So, to be honest, A Doula is the support system you didn’t know you needed. In recent years, Doulas have made a resurgence in today’s society. There has been much research done about the benefits of having continuous labor support. 

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BENEFITS OF HAVING A DOULA

1. A positive birth experience
2. Fill in the gaps with support
3. Individual childbirth Education
4. Decreases the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience by 31%
5. Provides support mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and physically
6. Reduces the rate of C-section by 39%
7. There’s an 8% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth
8. We have a great connection to local resources

I became a Doula to make a difference in the lives of women and families. To be an advocate and to ensure that every mother’s birth outcome is positive. I was trained to be a Doula, Childbirth Educator, and I’m working on becoming a certified Breastfeeding counselor. I have the privilege of being mentored by an amazing birth worker. I can’t call her just a Doula because she does it all and is amazing in this Doula community. I want to give a shout-out to my mentor Esther from the Metro Mommy Agency. I have all the tools to be the best Doula I can be and run my Doula business because of her. 

As time goes by, I will share my experience and share my clients’ experiences here on the blog, so I can continue to educate you more about this community the importance of having a Doula as part of your birth plan.

As a Doula, my purpose is to support your birth vision, bring oneness to your body and mind. I am here to amplify your experiences and, of course, empower you to find your strength from within.

MY DOULA SERVICES

I’ll take this time to say I am accepting new clients. If you or anyone you know is expecting and think a Doula is a right fit( I hope you do consider), please send me an email, and we can set up a consultation. I am here to help you from the Prenatal stage, Labor support, and postpartum stage. I am all about educating, empowering, and promoting positivity!

1. Prenatal: Birth planning, addressing your concerns. get your partner involved by teaching them comfort measures and what to expect.
2. Continuous Labor Support: No matter how long your labor is, I am with you! I work on call. I’ll be your speed dial person. I do home births and hospital births. I will remain with you and your family up to 3 hours after your delivery.
3. Postpartum care: 24 to 72 hours after delivery. I’ll be there once you’re discharged from the hospital. I will provide newborn care, light housekeeping, meal prepping during the first six weeks.

Have you or anyone ever had an experience with a Doula? Comment below what your experience is/was. Do you think you would have a Doula as part of your birth plan when that time comes?