Meet the Emerald Doula : 5 Questions with Meredith

1: Give us a three word summary of who you are.

Accompaniment. Committed. Goofy. 

2: What drew you to a career as a doula?

A combination of academic background, passions, job history, and the stars aligning brought me to this work. I found out what a “doula” was through hearing the birth story of the baby that I was nannying for at the time. I had the privilege of pretty immediately grounding doula work in a reproductive justice framework, which aligned with much of the other spheres of my life. I also have an MSW (Masters in Social Work), but often felt frustrated in the field. Doula work feels similar, but more expansive and creative.

3: What's rocking your world right now, in birth or in parenting?

Witnessing how a birthing body and baby move together over the course of labor. 

4: Where might we find you when you’re not doula-ing?

On a walk in the woods or cooking up a storm in my kitchen.

5: What's your Top 5 Registry Must-Haves for new parents?

  • A postpartum doula fund

  • A meal train

  • An affordable and comfortable baby carrier

  • A photography session

  • Blackout curtains

From “Do"-ula to “Be”-la: When Quiet Presence Does More Than Action

There are a lot of reasons why pregnant people and new parents hire doulas. 

In birth, it’s often because we offer a deep well of information when you need it. Providing evidence-based information about your birth options, interventions, and suggest labor positions you might try. We often bring a lot of hands-on comfort, too- massage, counter pressure, reassuring touch, etc. 

As postpartum doulas, we offer a lot of practical help. Folding laundry, tidying the kitchen, cutting up fruit and vegetables as quick snacks, or prepping tasty, nutritious meals. Postpartum doulas also sometimes take over baby care so tired, exhausted parents are able to nap, shower, visit with friends and family, or just have some alone time. 

Sometimes, though, the magic of our work as doulas isn’t in what we actively do. Sometimes, the magic comes from just simply, being. 

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When Your Scar Doesn't Remind You Of A Smiling Face {Guest Post: Cesarean Awareness Month}

I still don't look back on my son's birth with good feelings.  My scar doesn't remind me of a smiling face, as an optimistic blogger proposed it should.

I still cringe when a friend or family member (always well-intentioned) says something along the lines of "at least you had a healthy baby" after I share my birth story. I still avoid news articles and slide shows featuring photos of mom looking lovingly into baby's eyes immediately after birth. 

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