Become a Doula

I finished my second book on the required reading list “The Doula Book” It was great and very interesting.

I also went to a conference about raising women’s voices in health care. It was about using personal stories and storytelling to help make and change policies. It was very inspiring and exciting, and I heard an AMAZING NY doula speak. I met her assistant at lunch and got her card. I hope to arrange an informational interview with her if possible sometime this summer. I want to think carefully about what I need to ask her at this point though…

I’m taking a break from the Doula books right now because I got a bunch of library books. But I bought two more from my required reading list, so I can read them when I’m ready.

I haven’t given myself a deadline for when I want to complete the training process. I wonder if I should?

I’ve been thinking about getting certified as a birth doula for several years. I made a movie about midwifery my senior year in college, and became a lifelong believer in supporting womens empowerment of their families through birth. I’ve had it in the back of my mind to become a more active supporter by providing doula services, but always thought I should have a child first.

I haven’t had a child yet, but I don’t see any reason to keep putting off doing the work to be certified. I read Ina May Gaskin’s Guide to Childbirth and found it fascinating. I am now reading The Doula Book, and I’m planning on going to the Metropolitan Doula meeting next week to meet some doula’s in NYC and pick their brains a little.

I am excited to be on this journey.