Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
The first thing you need to know about me is that I'm an anthropologist turned doula, and I've never lost that passion for both an evidence-based perspective as well as deep respect for cultural folk knowledge. I know better than most how amazingly the human body has evolved to birth our babies (my studies involved plenty of anatomy and biomechanics), but also how crucial the influence of culture, community and support is. I've also been lucky enough to travel, live, and work all around the world, which has given me such a beautiful glimpse into how diverse the practices around family, birth, and childcare are across our species. I'm now settled living in Cambridge with my partner, daughter, and two fluffy cats, but that global perspective has never left me
I discovered the power of having a doula first-hand during my pregnancy with my daughter, where I was lucky enough to be supported by two incredible women. That had been my plan for a long time, but little did I know just how transformative an experience it would be. They helped me navigate every step of the process, and while I had a difficult birth experience for a number of reasons, their care brought me out of that process wiser, happier, and more empowered than I was before. I became fixated on the idea that EVERY family deserves the support we had, and I felt for the first time in my life what I can only describe as a calling!
I have also, through the trials and triumphs of my own parenthood journey, become passionate about the idea that support and continuity of care shouldn't just stop at birth, or at 6 weeks postpartum. Babies have never come with a handy manual, but historically we had so much more community support, and also so many opportunities to witness and experience childcare before we became parents ourselves. I am constantly studying and learning more about baby wearing, breastfeeding, infant sleep, child development, nutrition, and psychology so that I can be there for my clients when they want evidence and information, a listening ear, or a sounding board throughout their children's lives to help them navigate this incredible journey with confidence and joy!
(Pictured to the left: me, aged 27, taking joy in having a child
Pictures below: me, aged 5, taking joy in being a child!)
- Developing Doulas preparation course Autumn 2021
- CPD Mum and Baby Academy member since October 2021 (modules covering health topics from preconception to the postpartum and infant care)
- Consent: Rights in Childbirth Workshop with Developing Doulas and Emma Ashworth October 2021
- Big Little Feelings "Winning the Toddler Stage" Parenting Course 2021-2022
- The Wise Hippo Hypnobirthing Teacher Training February-March 2022
- Postnatal Recovery Massage course (certified July 2022)
- St Johns Ambulance Paediatric First Aider (September 2022)
While I have decently been recognised for births, I am a mentored postnatal doula- what does that mean?
I have voluntarily chosen to become a certified doula by undergoing a process of preparation and support through the Doula UK-accredited organisation Developing Doulas. As part of this process, I have chosen to begin my career with a period of mentorship, where I am guided and overseen by a more experienced birth worker. I have completed this process in relation to providing support for births, but it is still ongoing in regards to postnatal work!
This birth worker is part of my circle of confidentially, so that I can speak freely with them about my experiences - although they will never have access to your identity. They provide me with practical and emotional support to help me navigate this beginning of my OWN new journey - kind of doulaing the doulas! I consult with them on issues or situations I find challenging, and debrief after each birth or postnatal client. Their aim is to help me reflect and hone my practice so I can be confident, empowered helper my clients need!
It may seem daunting or less ideal to hire a mentored doula, but I would like to make a case for why this can be a particularly positive thing. Firstly, as a newer doula I am coming into supporting you, and baby without baggage or preconceptions. You really are the expert in you; no matter how experienced a birth worker is, your experience will be an entirely new and unique one every time. Second, as well as my care and support you gain the wealth of information and perspective of my mentor. And finally, mentored doulas often charge a bit less than fully recognised ones - so you're getting the same amazing quality of support, for really good value!