Why did you become a doula?

After experiencing the benefits of a doula first hand as a client, I knew that this career was one that would be perfect for me. My deep appreciation and respect for the people that bring life into the world and my unwavering love for babies meant that being a doula would be so personally fulfilling. I just had to find a way to make it my life.

Why did you become a doula?

I didn't know I wanted to be a doula. I saw it as a stepping stone to midwifery initially. But after taking my trainings, I fell in love with the unbiased, non-judgmental support I could provide to families of all backgrounds. Being someone who helps a new parent or family find their inner strength and confidence has been the most rewarding work of my life.

Why did you become a doula?

After having children of my own, I always knew I wanted to work with families and their babies. I didn't know what that looked like until I found out about doula work. I want to help support families during this special and vulnerable time in their lives and help them feel confident in the decisions they are making for their family.

Why did you become a doula?

I have been drawn to pregnancy, L&D, and postpartum families my entire life. When I first heard the word doula when I was 15, I knew what I would do with my life. After having my own children, experiencing two back-to-back miscarriages, and struggling with postpartum depression and anxiety, I saw firsthand the immense need for support for families experiencing the roller coaster of pregnancy and parenting and decided to take the dive into the doula world.

Why did you become a doula?

With my own birth experiences, aside from my partner, my doulas were my foundation. They were there through every change and bump in the road. I quickly realized how incredibly important this work truly is and found myself being drawn to it. I was confident that I could be a valuable asset and support system to new families during some of the most vulnerable, raw, and beautiful moments of their lives. Birth, and the early weeks thereafter, have become my passion.

Then it was time to cut the cord. The last baby I would have was finally about to be completely separated from me. It was the last time I would be part of two. It was the epitome of bittersweet - it was the end of a journey, not just of this birth but of all of them, but although it was an ending it was a happy one, one symbolic of so much, so many lessons I had learned, so much love I had gained…

Dear Doula,

I am 36 weeks today, so it’s time to pack my bag!! I’ve seen a few lists on Pinterest, but some of the items listed seem unnecessary. Help!! What do I really need in my hospital bag?

-Packing in Pleasant Ridge

At Doulas of Cincinnati, we’re not interested in hitching our baggage (birth bags or otherwise) to your birthing day. In fact, we work tirelessly to unpack (and let go of) any biases or preconceived notions we may have picked up before we walk into your space on the big day.

My arms, for one, are thankful!

Cincinnati Midwife, Tina Pearson, answers your questions about midwifery care.

I remember my first birth. I had read all the books, had my bag of tricks and accompanying savior complex. I knew what birth should look like and I was determined to help my clients have it. It didn’t take long for me to realize just how misguided I was. Below are the five things I wish I’d known when starting out.