Skip to main content

World Doula Week

Today kicks off World Doula Week, a celebration of doulas all around the world. This year's theme is "Doulas make a difference" and I'm here for it! Over the last seven years, I've been blessed to work with more than seventy families. Many stick out in my mind and have left a special imprint on my heart. I truly hope I've made a difference, as I continuously strive to leave memorable impressions on the families I care for. 




What is a Doula?

A doula, translated from the original Greek language, means "a woman who serves". She serves families in the birth and postpartum period by providing evidence-based information, resources, emotional and physical support, while "mothering the mother" as she transitions into motherhood. 


What services do they provide?

In 1969 American Medical Anthropologist, Dana Raphael coined the word "doula" as a woman outside the family who tenders the new mother, so she can successfully breastfeed. Her book The Tender Gift: Breastfeeding so beautifully describes the process of becoming a mother, called "matrescence" This book is one that I hold dear and it has become a model of care for me as a Postpartum Doula. Although it was published in the 70s and is now out of print, I resonate with it so much and love lending it out to my clients from time to time. So many feelings, emotions, and hormonal changes happen during the birth and postpartum period and it's incredibly important for women to be supported and nurtured during this sacred phase. However you chose to define your doula work, know that you are valued as you pour your heart and passion into the lives of families. Keep doula'ing your thang! 


I currently serve Houston, Tx and surrounding areas, offering postpartum doula support, lactation visits (both in-home and virtual) and gentle sleep coaching. You can follow my doula journey > here and if you would like to inquire about my services please fill out my contact form > here

Happy World Doula Week! 

-Katie Newby






Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The Breastfeeding Teammate: A Dad's Guide to Supporting Mom and Bonding with Baby

Breastfeeding creates a beautiful bond between mother and baby, but the journey is so much richer when dads are actively involved. While the physical act of nursing may fall on mom's shoulders, fathers have countless opportunities to support this journey and build their own special connection with baby. Let's explore some meaningful ways dads can become essential partners in the breastfeeding experience. Get Educated (Without Being Told To) Nothing makes a nursing mom feel more supported than a partner who takes initiative to understand breastfeeding! Taking a class together before baby arrives shows you're in this as a team. Even if baby is already here, watching a few YouTube videos or reading articles about common challenges can transform a dad into a breastfeeding ally when he suggests, "Maybe try the football hold?" during a difficult latch. Master the Art of Silent Support There's something magical about a partner who can deliver a fresh water bottle, pl...
Post a Comment
Read more

How Long Should I Breastfeed? Evidence-Based Advice & Your Breastfeeding Goals

One of the most common questions new moms ask is, "How long should I breastfeed?" The answer isn't one-size-fits-all – it truly depends on your personal goals and circumstances. While professional health organizations offer recommendations, remember that your breastfeeding journey is uniquely yours. What the Experts Recommend The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises mothers to breastfeed for at least 12 months or longer if both mother and baby wish to continue. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend breastfeeding for up to two years or beyond. These guidelines highlight the continued benefits breast milk provides, even as your baby grows into toddlerhood. Your Choice, Your Journey Ultimately, how long you breastfeed is a deeply personal decision. As long as both you and your baby are happy and thriving, there is no "right" or "wrong" duration. Some mothers breastfeed for a few ...
Post a Comment
Read more

A Reassuring Presence in the Room: The Benefits of a Postpartum Doula

Navigating the early days of motherhood can feel both magical and overwhelming. Right in the middle of all the beautiful chaos - emotions, sleepless nights, and endless questions - a postpartum doula offers a calming, steady presence that can truly transform your experience. A Sense of Calm in the Unknown A postpartum doula is more than just a helper - they’re a reassuring presence in the room. Their experienced, compassionate support helps reduce anxiety and brings a sense of calm during those unpredictable moments. When you're feeling overwhelmed, knowing that someone is there to listen, answer your questions, and validate your feelings can make all the difference. Building Confidence and Trust In the midst of uncertainty, it’s common for new moms to question their instincts. A doula provides gentle guidance on baby care techniques - from soothing a fussy baby to helping you find the right breastfeeding position - empowering you to trust your maternal intuition. This supporti...
Post a Comment
Read more