Doula School Canada

Tag: doula

7 things you Should know about Menstruation and Why a Fertility Doula can Help!
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”491531″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mk_padding_divider][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1679506139819{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]A menstrual period is the monthly shedding of the uterine lining. Menstruation is also known by the terms menses, menstrual period, menstrual cycle or period. Menstruation is a normal and healthy part of life for most people with a uterus and no matter what you think you know about it age, hormones or even the weather can change how a person menstruates and how it feels ( A reason for why connecting with a Fertility Doula is a good idea!). Period facts are often obscured by myths about menstruation. Most people with a uterus get their first period between the ages of 10 and 15 and continue to have their period until their late 40s or early 50s.

So let’s talk about some period facts:
1. You loose less blood than you think you do: First off, you need to know that only approx. 50% of menstrual fluid is blood. ‘Menstrual fluid’ is not the same as ‘blood’, menstrual fluid also contains cervical mucous and vaginal secretions. On average a person loses anywhere between 1-6 tablespoons of menstrual fluid during each period. It can be thin or clumpy and varies in colour from dark red to brown or pink.
2. It can take up to 3 years from the beginning of menstruation for your period to become regular: It’s common for cycles to be somewhat unpredictable for about two years after the first period. This means periods may not always come at the same time every cycle. Your periods may also look and feel somewhat different cycle-to-cycle. The first period may be quite short, with only a little bit of bleeding and the second period may be longer with more bleeding. After a couple of years, your cycles should become more regular, but may still continue to vary. Most cycles settle into a predictable rhythm about six years after menarche (the onset of your period).
3. The average menstrual cycle is about 25- 30 days but not always: The average length of a menstrual cycle is 28 days. The days between periods is your menstrual cycle length. However, a cycle can range in length from 21 days to about 35 days and still be normal. Most people have their period (bleed) for between three and seven days. Once you reach your 20s, your cycles become more consistent and regular. Once your body begins transitioning to menopause, your periods will change again and become more irregular. From the time of your first cycle to menopause, the average menstruating person will have around 450 periods in their lifetime. Added up, this equates to around 10 years — or about 3,500 days — of the average menstruating person ’s life that will be spent menstruating.
4. Steps of your Cycle: The rise and fall of your hormones trigger the steps in your menstrual cycle. Your hormones cause the organs of your reproductive tract to respond in certain ways. The specific events that occur during your menstrual cycle are:
  1. The menses phase: This phase, which typically lasts from day one to day five, is the time when the lining of your uterus sheds through your vagina if pregnancy hasn’t occurred. Most people bleed for three to five days, but a period lasting only three days to as many as seven days is usually not a cause for worry.
  2. The follicular phase: This phase typically takes place from days six to 14. During this time, the level of the hormone estrogen rises, which causes the lining of your uterus (the endometrium) to grow and thicken. In addition, another hormone — follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) — causes follicles in your ovaries to grow. During days 10 to 14, one of the developing follicles will form a fully mature egg (ovum).
  3. Ovulation: This phase occurs roughly at about day 14 in a 28-day menstrual cycle. A sudden increase in another hormone — luteinizing hormone (LH) — causes your ovary to release its egg. This event is ovulation. However, some people do not ovulate or they ovulate at different times, more about this later.
  4. The luteal phase: This phase lasts from about day 15 to day 28. Your egg leaves your ovary and begins to travel through your fallopian tubes to your uterus. The level of the hormone progesterone rises to help prepare your uterine lining for pregnancy. If the egg becomes fertilized by sperm and attaches itself to your uterine wall (implantation), you become pregnant. If pregnancy doesn’t occur, estrogen and progesterone levels drop and the thick lining of your uterus sheds during your period.
5. Let’s talk about ovulation: Ovulation usually happens once each month, about two weeks before your next period. Ovulation can last from 16 to 32 hours. It is possible to get pregnant in the five days before ovulation and on the day of ovulation, but it’s more likely in the three days leading up to and including ovulation. Once the egg is released, it will survive up to 24 hours. If sperm reaches the egg during this time, you may get pregnant. Some people with a uterus do not ovulate regularly. This is common in the first two to three years after your periods start and during the lead-up to menopause. Some conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and amenorrhoea (when periods stop due to excessive exercise or eating disorders) may cause irregular ovulation. Individuals with certain hormone conditions do not ovulate at all. It is possible to ovulate and not have a period after. It is possible to get pregnant without having periods in several months, but the chance of pregnancy of much lower when you are not having periods, compared to when you have regular periods. It is also possible to experience monthly periods without going through ovulation first- this is considered abnormal and is the result of something called an “anovulatory cycle”.
6. Your periods get worse when it is cold: This is definitely an amazing period fact: cold weather can impact your period, making it heavier and longer than normal. During the winter months, a menstruating person’s flow, period duration, and even pain level are longer than in the summer. This pattern also extends to women who live in colder climates rather than warmer temperatures. The seasons can also affect your PMT too — the darker, shorter days can adversely impact your mood when combined with female productive hormones. This is thought to be because of a lack of sunshine, which helps our bodies to produce vitamin D and dopamine — which both boost our moods, happiness, concentration and all-around health levels.
7. Periods after Pregnancy: After birth, your periods will return at your body’s own pace. It’s possible for your periods to return as soon as 4 to 6 weeks after childbirth. If you bottle feed or partially bodyfeed your baby, you’ll tend to start having periods sooner than if you exclusively bodyfeed. If you choose to bodyfeed exclusively, your first period may not return for several months. For those who keep bodyfeeding, it might not return for 1 to 2 years. The range of “normal”, is enormous. Experiencing a menstrual period does not mean that your menstrual cycle has returned permanently and without an accurate clinical test, you won’t know whether or not you ovulated (released an egg and could potentially become pregnant). You are more likely to ovulate and resume regular periods if your baby is going for more than a few hours without breastfeeding (for instance, at night) and your baby is more than 6 months old. Many bodyfeeding parents experience a time of delayed fertility during breastfeeding. This is very common and is referred to in many places as the Lactation Amenorrhea Method (LAM) of contraception. However it is important to remember that you can get pregnant while nursing, even without a period.
These 7 facts are just the tip of the iceburg when it comes to understanding your body and menstruation. If you have questions, whether you are trying to get pregnant or not a Fertility Doula can help with that![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mk_padding_divider][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”491536″ img_size=”medium”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_btn title=”Download the infographic here” color=”turquoise” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fstefanie-techops.wisdmlabs.net%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F03%2F7-things-to-know-about-your-cycle-1.pdf|target:_blank”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
March 22, 2023
The Ultimate Dream Team: Doulas and Partners

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1642695988103{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t need a doula! I have a partner(s),” this post is for you!

Your partner is (or partners are) pretty amazing and doulas are so happy to have them on board, however, doulas bring different qualities and backgrounds to birth and postpartum preparation and space than partners do.

Let’s talk about how your partner(s) and doula complement one another and each fill a vital role.

The role of a doula and the role of your partner(s) during labor are vastly different but equally important.

Let me explain….

The Partner’s Role:

The role of your partner(s) (who is/are emotionally attached to you) in labor is a tremendous asset to you in many ways. Your partner(s) provide(s) comfort to you in a way that your doula (aka a new connection) is simply not capable of.

They know you intimately; your fears, your passions, your deep concerns, and your history. They can anticipate your reactions before you have even had them. They are the person/people you look to in life for support and they are likely the person/people you feel most comfortable being your real self with.

Your partner(s) can get your oxytocin flowing (it plays an important role in labour and chestfeeding). Your partner(s) can cuddle, kiss, or massage you in intimate ways that only you and your partner(s) can share.

This relationship in the birthing room and during postpartum is incredibly valuable, HOWEVER, it is not the doulas role.

The Doula’s Role:

The doula’s primary focus during your pregnancy and the postpartum period is education, followed by the support of the decisions you make. The doula is able to answer your questions and lead you to the resources you seek. Through learning about normal physiological birth and birth options, chestfeeding and postpartum concerns partners can feel confident in supporting their partners. But they also have the reassurance of knowing a perinatal professional will be there to guide them.

The doula can actually bring you closer to your partner. By making sure that your partner’s needs are met (food, drink, and reassurance), the birther and partner(s) can work more closely together. The doula allows for the partner(s) to participate at their own comfort level. The doula can fill in and allow the partner(s) to participate as they wish, without leaving the birther or postpartum person’s needs unmet.

The doula is trained to know what is “normal” and what is beyond the scope of normal. The doula’s experience (professional and sometimes personal) enables them to support you confidently. The doula creates a space where the birther and partner(s) are given the opportunity to ask questions and make informed choices.

When a doula attends a birth or supports you in the postpartum period, they bring with them the strength and wisdom of those they have served before you. Being the sole emotional and physical support for a labouring or postpartum person can be overwhelming for some partners. If we look at the birth and postpartum periods throughout history, we often see birthers surrounded by other experienced humans offering continuous support. Our shift in birth norms over the last century has made it uncommon to have multiple continuous support people. Partners provide an intimate and essential role that cannot be replaced, but a doula can come alongside to help and enhance the experience.

The doula is great at talking about the huge transition that is new parenthood. Especially for first-time parents, it can be so important to have someone to talk to about the big life and identity changes that happen when you bring a new baby into your family.

The Doula has a network and knows when offering resources and referrals are needed (from pelvic floor physical therapy, counselling support, or chestfeeding resources, to house cleaning services, or information on newborn jaundice, and so much more).

Your birth or postpartum team is not an either/or situation, and no doula would (or could!) ever take the place of your partner. Doulas and partners complement one another and come together to provide loving, compassionate, and judgment-free support along the journey to parenthood. It’s important to assemble your team carefully and think about the mix of personalities and support styles you want involved in your experience, making sure everyone is prepared to walk alongside you with their unique gifts and skills.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

January 20, 2022
Getting to know our Members: 6 Questions

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1590763418165{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Meet Sarah Alicia Elder. Owner of ElderFlower Doula Serving families in New Westminster B.C Canada, This mother of three, can’t stay still and her love for learning has opened up many different career paths. Her sense of community has led her to different fields within human services. Now, Sarah is putting it all together to help families in New Westminster. She is a full-service doula-in-training offering support and resources for pre-pregnancy to post-partum and everything in-between.

We had a chat with Sarah Alicia about what brought her to this work and got to know her a little better!

Why did you decide to become a Birth Professional ?

I have always been drawn to working with babies and young children. When I was in high school, I wanted to become a midwife but never felt like I could do the education. I didn’t learn about doula work until I was pregnant with my first and had a friend’s sister offer doula services. I did some research and after having my second baby, I noticed that for much of the birthing experience, a doula is very much needed. I liked my nurses but having someone helping me or just keeping space for me before going to the hospital as well as having a familiar face throughout the experience would have been a blessing. After talking with other mothers, I realized so many of us do not have extra help and/or have partners who are unsure how to help. Doulas make sure all the questions running around in our head are answered.

What is the most surprising thing you have learned so far as a birth worker/ educator?

The most surprising thing I have learned is that doulas play such an important role and complement other birth workers. Doulas, however, I feel are often forgotten. I still have people ask me what a doula is when I tell others what I do for work. After explaining the role I play during pregnancy, labour and birth, many say they wished they had a doula working with them at their own births. More people are choosing to have a doula present for many different reasons; not having a reliable person to help, choosing to give birth as a single parent, and birthing at home are just a few. Slowly, as more and more companies see the value of doula support and realize that not every family is in a financial situation to afford doula services, extended medical plans are starting to cover the costs of doula support. Studies show that continuous support from a doula lowers intervention rates, including cesarean. As a society, it is imperative that we demand better support to drive change. Nothing happens if we don’t ask!

Why did you choose Doula Canada?

I chose Doula Canada mainly because it is Canadian and has an online option. Having very young children and being a stay-at-home mom makes going to an in-person class a lot harder. The flexibility of making my own learning schedule was a must. I also love that the organization has international ties and offer so many different classes to help me further my career. The instructors and directors care about their work and are so hands-on. I don’t feel like just a number but as an important part of the doula community.

Interesting Fact about yourself ( hobby, quirk)

As well as being a doula, I am a certified cosmetologist and sewer. I love making and creating new outfits by using old clothing from when I was little.

If you could give advice to someone just starting out what would you say..

The advice I would love to give to someone just starting out is to be true to yourself. Take your special skills and incorporate them into your doula work. For me, using my background as a cosmetologist and my love for being hands-on and creative, I offer self-care and keepsake art projects to my clients. The things I learned in previous jobs have helped make my doula business unique to me! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1590764107834{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] You can learn more about Sarah Alicia here

Website: https://elderflowerdoula.wordpress.com/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/elderflowerdoula/[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]

May 29, 2020
10 Tips for Winter Doula Life in Canada

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Winter is fast approaching, and for some of us we couldn’t be happier. However, if you’re like me, it’s a less than exciting time. Here in Newfoundland, winter lasts about half the year, so we need to put in some extra effort to try to enjoy this tidbit nipply season. As a Canadian doula, we have the extra challenge of navigating birth work through this unpredictable time of year. Here are my suggestions to help you get through these cold months:

[/vc_column_text][mk_padding_divider][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1572904448393{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Number 1:
Have good winter tires – we can be called to a birth or scheduled for a postpartum shift anytime, so it’s important to be confident on the road. If you’re able to reschedule your shifts if the weather is bad, all the better, but even on a nice day you might be facing some less than optimal road conditions. Personally, I hate spending money on my car, but good tires are an investment in my safety and the safety of everyone else on the road too, and a bit of piece of mind.

Number 2:
Make sure your childcare will still stand if there’s a snow day at school or if the road conditions are really bad – will your sitter or family still be able to get to you or take your child if there is no school? Make sure you have backup for your back up if circumstances change.

Number 3:
Have an emergency pack ready in your car – are you prepared if you get stuck somewhere and can’t get home? Have some extra toiletries and clothes packed incase you need to stay with friends or sleep in the waiting room of the hospital before you get home. I know at the end of a long birth or shift it can be very tempting to just push through and try to get home, but sometimes its better to stay where you are until the roads clear up. Have things packed so you’re ready if you need to wait to get home.

Number 4:
Get outside as much as possible – it can be very tempting to ignore the existence of snow and slush and cold. But for our mental health, it important for us to get for fresh air and some vitamin D. You can try snowshoeing or skiing. Or maybe it just a matter of standing outside your door for a couple seconds in the mornings to start your day.

Number 5:
Pack layers in your go bag – the temperature of a hospital room or someone else’s house in unpredictable at the best of times, but especially during the winter. Pack lots of layers so that you can stay comfortable and your clients don’t need to accommodate you.

Number 6:
Give yourself lots of time for travel – maybe you need to adjust your contract to allow for extra travel time during the winter months. If you live close to the hospital, or if your catchment area for your clients is pretty small, it might not make a difference to your travel time, but make sure you either leave earlier than you usually would or make sure clients know you might take a bit longer, weather depending.

Number 7:
Have some soul warming self care practices – birth work is hard work, both physically and mentally, and self care may look different during the winter months. Make sure you have some ways to fill your cup and keep your heart warm. Maybe you like having a hot bath, or enjoying a cup of tea or really good coffee or stretching your body and mind with a regular yoga practice. Take care or yourself so you can better take care of your clients and your family.

Number 8:
Stay active – We need to take care of our bodies so that we don’t risk injury when we are working with families, be it at a birth or during postpartum shifts. It’s easy to increase how much time we spend sitting when its not so nice out, so make sure you’re doing things to keep your body moving. Yoga, swimming, snowshoeing, skiing, walking on an indoor track, stacking wood are all great ways to keep your body active when its tempting to just stay inside and cozy under a blanket for the next 6 months.

Number 9:
Eat as healthy as possible – fresh fruit and veggies are hard to come by in the middle of winter. To care for our bodies, we must also be conscious of our nutrition. I’m guilty of becoming lazy when it comes to cooking healthy meals. Frozen fruit and veggies are a great way to keep the good food coming without spending a fortune to buy out of season produce. Maybe make some granola bars or trail mix to bring with you to births and shifts so that you’re not tempted to buy junk to keep your body full of fuel.

Number 10:
Learn to embrace it a little – it took me a long time, but eventually I came to the realization that I don’t want to be miserable for half of my life, so I figured out how to, not love, but embrace winter a little bit more. Whether it’s at home, at work or in your social life, do something that helps you to enjoy this colder season.[/vc_column_text][mk_padding_divider][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1572904478048{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]

We live in a very large and diverse country, even when it comes to the weather. No matter where you find yourselves this winter, I’m sending lots of love and wishes of warmth for you all. Stay safe out there Doula Canada!

[/vc_column_text][mk_padding_divider][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”1855″ img_size=”medium”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1572904706244{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]About the author:

Samantha Whitman is a certified Labour and Birth Doula with Doula Training Canada, and the current Provincial Liaison for the province of Newfoundland and territory of Labrador.

Samantha has a history of being dedicated to supporting the families of her community, previously as a paramedic and now as a doula.

She lives in the central area of Newfoundland with her husband and son and enjoys getting outside, hiking, and exploring with her family.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

November 4, 2019
Ecuador Doula Immersion 2019
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][mk_padding_divider][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1563461638717{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]It’s here!

A group of doulas, including a number from Doula Training Canada, have started the journey to Ecuador to volunteer and learn as doulas.

A few of our members joined Group One with Wombs of the World and we cannot wait to hear more about their adventures, while others will be embarking for their Group Two experience tomorrow. Learning and adventure and support await!

Shaunacy, our life-long learning Director, will be joining Group Two and has posted the “must-have’s” of packing for a two week doula immersion program.

Follow along over the course of the next few weeks as we post pictures, experiences, and all our Ecuadorian learning fun!

[/vc_column_text][mk_padding_divider][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1563461705782{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Suggestions for packing for a two week doula volunteer trip:

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- Super comfortable shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking during clinic hours and your time exploring the country you are volunteering in. Comfortable shoes = packing item numero uno!
- Journal and pen. You are certainly going to want to take some time to write down your experiences. It’s a great way to unwind at the end of a busy day and carve out some time for yourself.
- Cards with birth/ doula related sayings in the native tongue of the country you are visiting. This will help you feel more confident in approaching persons who may not speak the same language as you. It is also respectful to try to speak their language first and can really open up body-to-body trust when speaking isn’t the primary form of doula support. Having these in Tanzania helped me huge when trying to remember Swahili.
- Snacks. I often bring cliff bars and my favourite herbal teas. If you are a picky eater, or want to eat often, then having a quick “grab and go” snack in your bag is a great idea.
- A bag big enough for awesome things. When you travel abroad you often have some exploring days that bring you to artisan markets. Having the space to grab up a few amazing items for home is a good idea. Or plan to bring old clothes and leave them there to create space!
- A doula name badge. Many immersion programs (like our amazing friends at Wombs of the World) request that you wear a name tag that says DOULA on it during clinic days. Have fun and create something with your picture, name and DOULA on it. You may also want to add some of those doula sayings mentioned above onto a lanyard with this badge.
- Photocopies of your passport, travel documents, and locations you will be staying. This will help you feel prepared and safe for anything that may pop up (good travel tip in general!).
- Lastly… an open mind! Packing and preparing for two weeks away can feel overwhelming when you are heading to a country that you haven’t visited before, and maybe working in environments you are not fully aware of. Keeping an open mind and remembering that you are there to learn not save is super important. The opportunities that volunteer immersion programs provide are long-lasting and profound. Going with an open mind, a lust to learn, and a heart full of compassion is what should fill most of your packing time!
[/vc_column_text][mk_padding_divider][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1563462371907{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Interested in learning more about volunteer support as a doula?

Check out Wombs of the World (a great example of a professionally organized option) and feel free to email info@stefanie-techops.wisdmlabs.net at any time with questions![/vc_column_text][mk_padding_divider][/vc_column][/vc_row]
July 18, 2019
DTC Endorses the National Aboriginal Council of Midwives position statements (2019)

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For Immediate Release: May 31, 2019 (MADOC, ON, CANADA)

Doula Training Canada© endorses the National Aboriginal Council of Midwives’ Position Statements on Evacuation for Birth, Indigenous Child Apprehensions, and Forced and Coerced Sterilization of Indigenous Peoples

The National Aboriginal Council of Midwives (NACM) has released three position statements on evacuation for birth, Indigenous child apprehensions, and forced and coerced sterilization of Indigenous Peoples. In the position statements, NACM condemns the:

routine and blanket evacuation of pregnant people for birth and demands the return of birthing services to all Indigenous communities;

over-representation of Indigenous infants and children in child protection services across the country; and

forced, coerced, and involuntary sterilization of Indigenous Peoples.

As an ally organization to Indigenous Peoples, and as an organization that strives to do better for Indigenous families, Doula Canada officially endorses the NACM position statements. The Doula Canada’s mission is to improve perinatal, infant and family well-being by educating and supporting professional doulas in Canada and around the world. Doula Canada supports all persons in their rights to bodily autonomy and free and informed consent. We support the inherent right of Indigenous Peoples to birth in their own communities, to access safe and culturally relevant care close to home, and to restore Indigenous birth practices.

Doula Canada recognizes that we have a role to play in making doula training and doula services more accessible to Indigenous Peoples. We are committed to respectful, inclusive and reciprocal relationships with Indigenous doulas and health care providers, and the Indigenous families and communities we serve.

We acknowledge that Indigenous doulas are ideal companions for Indigenous families. To provide equitable access to doula training and to increase the number of professionally trained Indigenous doulas, we are launching an Indigenous Doula Scholarship in September 2019.

The complete position statements can be found at NACM’s website at https://indigenousmidwifery.ca/position-statements/.

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June 4, 2019
Finding Balance: Working and Doula Life

The question often comes up in doula circles “how do people manage to swing doula work and family or other jobs”. It can be especially hard for people, like me, who are just starting out and aren’t in a place yet where they’re able to give up their other job for financial reason. I’m here to tell you, as a new doula in an area with no other doulas yet, a full time paramedic, a first-time mom-to-be, a DIY home builder and the Doula Canada Provincial Liaison for Newfoundland, it’s not an easy task.

There are two things that every doula must have, no matter their life situation. They must have a good support system and a love and deep desire for this work.

I took my training with Doula Canada in the spring of 2017. After having the time to set up my business, I took on a client due in January, and left a full time work schedule to accept a casual position working as a paramedic. I live in a province that is in heavy need of paramedics, so I have been able to work full time hours, but have the flexibility to take time off as needed. I know that this is a great luxury that is not available to everyone, and I have grateful for the position that I’m in. Having that flexibility was wonderful, as I took off time while on call for my doula client, and then returned to work again after her birth. This also coincided with my first trimester of pregnancy, so it worked out well in that I probably wouldn’t have been able to manage on call life while sick and exhausted from this pregnancy.

I would never be in the situation that I’m in without the unwavering support from my partner. When we decided that I would pursue this line of work, he supported me 100%. Even though we have had to tighten our shoestrings a bit in order for me to be on call periodically, he has recognized that for me to do work that will fill my cup, at times we will need to make some sacrifices in other areas of our lives. He also tags along to events with me, and listens to my many rants about the amount of work left to be done here! He’s a pretty good listener. I know moving forward with a child, he will allow me to take the time I need to focus on this business in whatever capacity that I need.

The second piece to the balancing puzzle is the love and desire for this type of work. It’s a lot easier to find the motivation to make those contacts, reach out to potential clients, and ask questions to the people in the community, when you see the potential. I’m so excited to have the opportunity to be a real part of the shift in birth culture here in Newfoundland. There are lots of struggles, but so much potential, which really lights my fire. After every positive meeting, I find myself motivated to keep moving forward. After every negative encounter, I find myself driven to help make that change. It’s hard to look at how far we have to go and to know, realistically, how long it’s going to take to get there. But each assignment that gets submitted, each new like on my Facebook page, every acknowledgement by a once skeptic gets us closer to providing the right support to the families in our area!

So how does this translate to you and your doula business?

First of all, find your support team. It’s hard to support people through their pregnancy, birth and postpartum without being supported yourself. Whether you need family to take care of your kids when you get called to a birth, a reliable babysitter for your prenatal visits or postpartum shifts, a partner who helps to manage times of lower income, a friend to enjoy a cup of tea with or a Doula Canada counterpart to vent and debrief with about hard situations, we all need to build our support team.

Figure out what you’ll need in order to make this a successful venture and then find the people to who will help you do that. Also be sure to add yourself to your support team.

Self-care is vitally important if we are to remain an active member of this birth culture shift. Fill your cup in order to continue filling others. That love and passion for the work, which I think you need to be a truly good and effective doula, is only sustainable if we take care of ourselves.

Samantha is the Provincial Liaison for Doula Canada and the owner of Nesting Owl Doula Services in Newfoundland. She is originally from Nova Scotia, but has been living in Newfoundland for the last 7 years. She had been working as a paramedic for the last 10 years before having her first child this summer. She is passionate about bringing midwifery care to Newfoundland and Labrador.

March 25, 2019
Bilingual Support: Meet Bridget Graham

In 2019 Doula Canada has set a goal of supporting our diverse population of doulas and childbirth educators.

One of the main initiatives in this goal has been to hire more bilingual staff… and Bridget Graham is exactly that!

This Nova Scotia residing doula has recently accepted the position of Provincial Liaison for Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.

Along with our recent partnership with Collège communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick, we hope to not only be teaching our programs in both French and English by year’s end, but also be supporting our students in the language of their choice coast-to-coast-to-coast.

Thank you Bridget for joining our team! We are excited for what is to come.

Learn more about Bridget:

What brought you to work with Doula Canada?
Dès le début de mes études avec Doula Canada en juillet 2017, j’ai toujours trouvé
que l’organisation est superbe. A chaque jour les employées et les étudiants
m’étonnent. Je me compte chanceuse de travailler avec Doula Canada comme
Liaison Provinciale pour la Nouvelle-Ecosse, le Nouveau-Brunswick et le Québec.

Describe some interesting facts about yourself!
I currently reside in Halifax, traditionally known as Kjipuktuk in Nova Scotia with
my partner Aaron and our cat, Alice. My hobbies include reading, baking, cooking,
making preserves and knitting. I am currently learning to quilt.

Describe your current job/profession or professional/personal
experience:
I am the current Engagement Retention Coordinator with the College of
Sustainability at Dalhousie University. In the past I have also served as the
Academic Advisor and Program Manager for the College of Sustainability.
I began my journey as a Doula in 2017, and since then I have attended two births
for my certification. Above all, I get the greatest joy from helping and supporting
others so my work as a doula allows me to do just that.

Describe any achievements, publications or presentation you have completed to
date.

In May 2015 I received my Bachelor of Arts Combined Honours degree in
Environment, Sustainability and Society, as well as Canadian Studies. In 2017, I
received my Master of Arts degree in Canadian History. Both of my degrees are
from Dalhousie University.

I have presented at the EECOM conference in October
2018 on student engagement via social media.
Describe any personal or professional memberships, certificates or awards you
have received.

I am currently a member of the Nova Scotia Doula Association, as well as a Board
Member for the Midwifery Coalition of Nova Scotia, Abortion Support Services
Atlantic and the Halifax Women’s History Society. I am a Sparks leader for Girl
Guides, I am a member of the Students on Ice Alumni Council, as well as a member
of Global Shapers Halifax Hub, and an advisor for the Alpha Eta chapter of Alpha Gamma Delta.

I am so excited for this opportunity and I cannot wait to see what it brings.

To reach Bridget please email: bridget@stefanie-techops.wisdmlabs.net

March 21, 2019
Renée Curry: Grant and Fundraising Coordinator

Doula Canada is pleased to have Renée Curry joining our administrative team as our Grant and Fundraising Coordinator.

Renée will be working with Doula Canada to create further opportunities to grow the doula and childbirth educator professional across communities in Canada. She will be actively seeking fundraising and grant opportunities for both Doula Canada projects, but also for partnerships and our members needs.

Learn a bit more about Renée:

Tell us about why you are excited to be joining the Doula Canada team Renée.

I am honoured to join the Doula Canada Team as the Grant Coordinator. It is evident that Doula Canada is an organization dedicated to the success of its students. Its spirit of collaboration and mentorship is refreshing and its truly Canadian beginning is an added bonus!

What are some things about yourself that our readers may be interested in knowing?

I am married and mother to a small brood of six (6) children. I run on hugs, sticky fingers and coffee. I like to collect half read books on my nightstand and to keep my hands busy with crafting (mostly knitting these days but drawing was once my go-to).

What have you done in your past experiences that have led you to this new role with Doula Canada?

My professional experience includes governmental agencies, unions and not-for-profit sector. I have a background in International Development and Women’s Studies which has a allowed me to research autonomy, agency and traditional birthing practices. I have been practicing as a doula for over 10 years and believe that respect is the key to a satisfying birth experience. I have been lucky to learn from some pretty incredible people including Dr. Jack Newman, Phyllis Klaus, Ina May Gaskin, Gail Tully, and Penny Simkin, not to mention the families I have been privileged to serve.

What work have you done that is related to doula or childbirth education as developing professions in Canada?

Registered Massage Therapist (MTANS), La Leche League Leader, Co-Chair of the Nova Scotia Doula Association, Certified Child Restraint Technician (CPSAC) and member of the International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM). I was the recipient of the Lifelong Learner Award from the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy (Halifax) in 2017. Other certificates include: Spinning Babies and Rebozo Connection: The Gena Kirby Method.

Bienvenue Renée! We are so pleased to have you joining our team.

You can reach Renée at fundraising@stefanie-techops.wisdmlabs.net

March 17, 2019
Indigenous Doula Consultant: Miranda Kelly

Doula Canada is honoured to have Miranda Kelly joining our administrative team as our Indigenous Doula Consultant.

Miranda will be working with Doula Canada to create opportunities and partnerships with our First Nations communities, seek fundraising for collaborative initiatives, and ensure our Doula Canada curriculum speaks to the relationships and experiences of all persons.

Learn a bit more about Miranda:

Why are you excited to be joining the Doula Canada team?

I am so excited to join Doula Canada as the Indigenous Doula Consultant. I love the vibrant Doula Canada community and look forward to the opportunity to contribute to Doula Canada’s excellence in training.

Tell us a bit about yourself!

I am of Stό:lō (People of the River) and mixed settler ancestry. I was raised in my home community, Soowahlie First Nation (near Chilliwack, BC). I carry the ancestral name of Tilyen, and I strive to bring honour to this name and my ancestors by working in service to First Nations and other Indigenous peoples. I have enjoyed living on the beautiful unceded, ancestral lands of Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Peoples since 2009. I am a wife and mother to two young children.

What has been your experience in the doula world?

I am a birth and postpartum doula serving Indigenous and non-Indigenous families in Vancouver, BC. Prior to starting my doula practice, I worked for ten years in Indigenous Peoples’ health planning, policy, education, and research. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Psychology, and a Master of Public Health Degree.

What are other relevant experiences you feel are important to your new role with Doula Canada?

From 2011-2016, I contributed to the ongoing transformation of First Nations health governance in BC that saw the creation of a first-of-its-kind First Nations Health Authority and the transfer of federal programs and services to the control of First Nations. I have provided guest lectures and conference panel and keynote presentations to wide audiences, including health sciences students, faculty, researchers, frontline health care professionals, and government partners.

I have previously volunteered with the Chilliwack General Hospital, Vancouver Island Health Authority, Urban Native Youth Association, Vancouver Aboriginal Transformative Justice Services Society, Mavis McMullen Housing Society, Canadian Public Health Association, and the Pacific Post Partum Support Society.

What are you currently involved in?

I currently practice as a member of the ekw’í7tl Indigenous Doula Collective. I am also a member of the BC Doula Services Association. I am proudly certified as a birth and postpartum doula through Doula Canada.

You can reach Miranda directly by emailing miranda@stefanie-techops.wisdmlabs.net

Welcome to our team!

March 13, 2019