As I sit here in my office I am on call for a birth, waiting to hear about niggles, contractions, discharge and waters breaking - any signs that labour is starting and that I may be needed soon.
When I am on call, I stay local, I manage my social life, I don’t drink and I am ready to head out when I am needed, whatever time of day.
Using a birth doula is about having additional professional support, someone to talk to and plan with, someone to talk through any wobbles, changes or challenges with.
My job isn’t medical, my role is to boost, listen, support, reassure and inform. I am there to offer practical help, to be an extra pair of hands, to provide continuity and to look after the birth space.
What do I take with me?
My doula bag is mainly about having a few items to hand for comfort and it can vary depending on my client and whether she is at home, going to hospital or being induced.
There are some things for me:
a change of clothes
deodorant, face cloth toothbrush and toothpaste to freshen up
lip balm and hand cream
phone charger, phone
money, including change
face mask
mints
water bottle
snacks
berocca
headache tablets
notes, notebook and pen
And a few basic just-in-case items for everyone:
copy of the birth plan
rescue remedy
lip balm
hair bobbles
spare batteries
massage oil
bendy straws
ear plugs
When I first started to attend births my doula bag was bigger, packed full of items that I never really used so now it’s just the basic essentials.
I become someone's doula because I am trusted so my presence can be calming. I use my voice and my hands and I maintain eye contact for reassurance.
Being a doula is really special - every birth is different and my role is different every time. I can be on call for 5 weeks or a week, I can be at a birth for 3 hours or 3 days and everything in-between, I can be a reassuring presence in the background or I can be hands-on - I match what is needed.
Please do leave any comments or questions below.
With digital courses and guides as well as consultations, there is something for you during pregnancy, for birth, with your baby and as a parent.