How I Became A Doula

As a child I was taught that women stick together. We help each other in anyway possible and we are stronger because of it. So it was really not a surprise when I wanted to become a doula.

Unfortunately, I was unable to heed that first call. I was going through a very difficult pregnancy which culminated in the loss of our first son. However, the universe wasn't finished with me! It was DURING the pushing phase of my second child's birth that I heard the call again. I was pushing a baby out, I was a little preoccupied but there it was, loud and slightly obnoxious. How did this seem like the appropriate time to decide my life's work?

Because of one sentence "C'mon Shannon, only YOU can push this baby out!"

What? No way! There are twenty people in this room and I have to do this? Alone? And then a few things dawned on me.

First- yep, I was in this alone. Nobody else could push this baby out. Shit.

Second- nobody was going to hold my hand and whisper sweet anythings in my ear. My mom and my husband had been here before and it hadn't ended well so they were kinda freaking out. My doctor (whom I adore) had also been here before and was doing everything she could to prevent a repeat. And the other sixteen people...I'm not exactly sure what they were doing but it didn't seem like it had anything to do with me.

Third realization- They're right. I have to do this but I want someone to hold my hand and tell me it's going to be alright and this baby isn't going to die and I'm doing a good job and I matter too. I WANT A DOULA!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So I pushed Noah into the world, learned how to breastfeeding (not well, breastfeeding with Noah was always a challenge), I wore him and I cloth diapered him and I learned a whole bunch about myself and my partner. And I started to follow another career path. Until one day,about 8 months later, a pregnant mom with no support walked into my life, I sat on a food security board and and friend asked if I wanted to take a doula training with her.Thank goodness the universe doesn't give up!

Less than a year later I was a certified doula. My focus and professional practice have changed in the last 5 years but my dedication and passion for pregnant, birthing and postpartum mamas has never wavered. My life is blessed and it just keeps getting better!

Why did you become a doula?