A lot of people hire doulas because they're told that with our support, you can achieve a "natural" birth, you won't need pain medication, and you won't have a c-section. Overall we have been proven to ensure better outcomes, and…
The Doula Myth
When Your Doula Doesn’t Speak Your Language
As doulas, we sometimes take for granted how easy communication can be. The majority of our clients are Canadian, or newcomers who speak a little English. Sometimes there is a language barrier, but we usually all know enough to communicate…
Doulas Support All Birth
Whether it is your plan or not, vaginal birth is not always the way your little one arrives into the world. A cesarean section (c-section) is often a choice or necessary. Also called a "belly birth," we don't usually discuss…
Doula Food for Thought – Fueling your Newborn Body
Many people have issues with food and their diet on a good day, but when you're pregnant and adjusting to postpartum life with a newborn, that relationship can become more difficult as we struggle to love our bodies even when…
Why Doulas Love Meconium
Doulas love meconium because it is your first clue to baby's health in the first few days after birth. Within 24 hours, baby has their first poop, and it's unsettling if you're not prepared. What is this sticky, black substance…
Like Father, Like Son: Circumcision Facts from a Childbirth Educator
Nothing can ruin a conversation between new-mommy friends like a discussion on infant circumcision. Over the ten years that I’ve been working with new moms and families I’ve heard all sides of the argument and even participated in a heated…
Labour with Dignity: Why I Became a Doula
Caitlin Shields When you're a doula, you inevitably get asked about why you became one. We all have our stories explaining why, and sometimes it gets very personal. My husband and I now live in Mississauga, but I grew up…
A Doula Knows Asking for Help is Not Failure
For first time parents, the reality of having a baby doesn't sink in until they're home, alone, and the visitors and the meals slow down. For women, especially, the stress and hormones can cause some pretty strong emotions. Around four…
Good to Know: Essential Oil Safety for Pregnancy and Newborns
If you are a woman on social media, you’ve probably noticed that essential oils are a huge trend right now. Whatever your ailment, there seems to be an oil for that. It’s no different for pregnant women and new moms;…
Sleeping It Off: Doula Sleep Advice for Your Baby’s Age
When was the last time you had a good night's sleep? Can't remember? You're not alone. We love babies, but the compromises we have to make for their wellbeing can be stressful. It'll all be worth it in the end,…
