One question we see asked often in doula discussion groups is which organization an individual should pick to train and certify with. For some people making this choice is simple, while for others they need more information. In this episode, we discuss how to find an organization that feels right for you & how they can support you through your doula career. We also discuss the things you may want to consider when making a choice & give you some food for thought on things you might not have considered before.

After the whirlwind of labor and delivery has passed, parents find themselves sinking into the routine of taking care of their baby. Now imagine there are two or more newborns to navigate. This is where you as a postpartum doula can provide invaluable support. Supporting multiples is more than just being a second set of hands, although that part is important too! In this episode, we talk about what it's like to be a doula for more than one baby and how this changes the family's needs that you are supporting.

Understanding the nuances of multiple births is critical to providing support to families expecting more than one baby. There are many factors that influence the management of a multiple pregnancy. In addition, the birth of multiples is also typically different than that of a single baby. As doulas, we help clients to know what to expect. We also help them to prepare for a birth that may be different than they expected. Come join us as we explore the ins and outs of support for the birth of multiples.

Let's talk about doula burnout. The average length of a doula's career is about 3-5 years. One of the most common reasons that doulas abandon their passion is because of burnout. It is important that doulas protect that passion from the start. We need people who have passion and drive to be in this field for the long term.  Doula burnout, fueled by poor boundaries taught as part of doula training. Or burnout fueled by a lack of support or a way to effectively process the things we bear witness to as doulas. Systems that are not sustainable and fail to create a structure for longevity. Come join us as we explore the causes and remedies for doula burnout.

The internal workings of the birthing body are often a mystery to both clients and doulas alike. Often the numbers and percentages surrounding cervical dilation and effacement are thought of as hard and fast. While dilation is often the one measurement that receives the most focus, it is not the only factor to be considered. There are 4 ways that the cervix will change in the weeks leading up to and during labor as well.  Come join us as we explore the many aspects of cervical change during pregnancy, labor, and birth.

As birth professionals, it is not uncommon to experience self-doubt as we begin working with clients. It is prevalent for birth professionals to feel the weight of imposter syndrome when working with clients we perceive as more educated—for example, doctors, nurses, or lawyers.  As individuals, we all have insecurities and self-doubt. Come join us as we talk about imposter syndrome and how to navigate the many challenges it presents and approaches to stepping beyond self-doubt and fear.

When it comes to supporting clients, there is no doubt that it can take a physical toll on our bodies. From hip squeezes to counterpressure the impact that these common comfort measures can take on our bodies can be extreme. It is essential that we find ways to adapt the care we give while providing support so that we can reduce the physical toll that it will take on our bodies.  Come join us as we explore the physical demands of birth and postpartum work and identify ways to help doulas mitigate the impacts.

Society often looks down upon teen pregnancy. There can be a lot of shame & judgment involved. For many teens, the doula can be viewed as just another adult who is trying to direct their birth experience. The key to supporting teens is to meet them where they are at. In this episode, we discuss how to approach supporting teen pregnancy, from how to conduct prenatal meetings, navigating parenteral or guardian involvement, to help our teen clients plan for their birth, and letting them lead the process.

Many doulas are curious about the types of doula partnership structures that exist. From life as a solo doula to life as an agency owner. To the life of an independent doula and an independent contractor working for an agency. We explore the many options that exist today for structuring a doula business.