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Episode 147: Virtual Doulas 2024
Virtual doula services emerged very quickly due to the pandemic in 2020. Necessity dictated that families who wanted the support of a doula when hospitals limited visitors receive that support virtually. Now, four years later, some doulas are still trying to build a business solely on virtual support. Doula support, whether in person or virtually, is beneficial. Virtual support is not optimal. In season one, Episode 18, we discussed virtual support months before COVID hit. Yet today, many of the same drawbacks exist for doulas providing virtual support in 2024. Join us as we revisit virtual support following the events of the COVID-19 pandemic, what we learned, and the drawbacks…
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Episode 146: Disappointing Experiences
Disappointing experiences can arise for both doulas and clients. As doulas, we must recognize how our biases may influence our perception. Furthermore, discussing these experiences with clients can affect how they interpret their birth and postpartum experiences. Therefore, we must process our feelings and biases separately from the doula-client relationship. Clients often feel disappointed when their birth expectations aren’t met. Sometimes, labor feels different than imagined. Even if a birth goes to plan, disappointment can still occur. The postpartum period may also bring unexpected challenges for new parents, leaving them with unmet expectations. Join us as we explore navigating disappointing experiences for doulas and clients.
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Episode 145: Cytotec in Obstetrics
The use of Cytotec, or misoprostol, in obstetrics has a complex history. Initially created to treat gastric ulcers, Cytotec has come to play a critical role in reproductive health. It has been used for medical abortions, cervical ripening, and labor induction. In this episode, we explore this drug’s journey from its original purpose to its controversial use in childbirth. We’ll break down its benefits and potential risks. Learn more about the off-label use of medications in healthcare and how this is a widely accepted practice. Whether you’re a birth worker or just curious, this episode offers key insights into Cytotec’s role in modern obstetrics.
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Episode 144: Neurodiversity & Doula Work
Neurodiversity can present many unique challenges for doulas. There is no doubt that doula work demands that we be highly social and often requires deep emotional connection and physical touch. From managing sensory sensitivities and navigating overstimulation to finding balance in high-energy environments, neurodiversity can impact the doula-client relationship and the birth experience in many potential ways. Sensory sensitivities may make it difficult to handle long labors in noisy, crowded hospital settings or cope with the smells and sounds that accompany birth. Overstimulation can be another challenge, as doulas may struggle to manage the emotional intensity of birth or feel overwhelmed in environments where multiple people are present. Join us to…
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Episode 143: Doula Pathways
There are many doula pathways regarding the structure and type of doula business that one may wish to pursue. Some individuals may begin with a solo business model, while others may jump into the world of doula agency owner right from the start. No one doula pathway will work best for everyone. Regardless of the pathway that one chooses, there is often a point at which one questions whether to continue with the current structure or consider pursuing one of the other options. One of the most common questions among doulas is, “Is it time?” Is it time to transition into something more? Is now the time to downsize and…
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Episode 142: Doula Connections
Creating meaningful connections with your prospective clients—is a vital skill for any successful doula. Building trust and a personal connection is essential for securing clients and providing the best support throughout their journey. Many practical strategies can be utilized to connect on a deeper level, from the first consultation to ongoing care. Communicating with empathy creates a welcoming atmosphere. It also allows you to establish yourself as a trusted partner in your clients’ birth or postpartum experiences. When meeting in a client’s home, you can use context clues to initiate conversations that build rapport and trust, allowing you to better understand and support their unique needs. Things such as dĂ©cor,…
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Episode 141: Universal Precautions
Universal precautions are essential to maintaining a safe and hygienic environment for both your clients and yourself. It is important for labor and postpartum doulas to understand them and how to apply them to their work. Universal precautions for doulas include proper hand hygiene. This involves handwashing before and after client interactions, especially when touching bodily fluids. We should also understand how to use personal protective equipment. This includes knowing when and how to use gloves and masks while providing labor support. We should also know how to safely navigate exposure to bodily fluids, including amniotic fluid, blood, and other secretions. Postpartum doulas also need to know safe practices for…
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Episode 140: Doula Availability
 Doula availability is a topic that can cause some anxiety. Being on-call 24/7 is a significant challenge, and adapting to this lifestyle requires careful planning and boundary-setting. Your phone is an essential lifeline to both your family and your clients. Feeling overwhelmed by the need to be available at a moment’s notice is common, but there are effective ways to leverage technology to help you manage this demand. From smart scheduling apps to automated responses, we’ll discuss tools that can help you set and maintain healthy boundaries. We also explore the availability needs of labor doulas versus postpartum doulas, recognizing that each role demands a unique approach. Whether you’re…
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Episode 139: Managing Money
Managing money is an essential skill for doulas, yet many need time, patience, and effort to develop this skill. Doulas must practice setting aside money for taxes to avoid being caught off guard during tax season. When that tax bill hits, it can hit hard. The unpredictable nature of birth work also requires budgeting your income. Without a budget and knowing where your money goes, it’s hard to make doula work sustainable. Join us as we share our approach to keeping finances in check, aiming for peace of mind and financial stability. Whether you’re just starting out or have been a doula for years, this episode offers valuable insights on…
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Episode 138: Working With Independent Contractors
Navigating the challenges of working with independent contractors as an agency owner is no small feat. Your agency’s reputation, especially your own, hinges on contractors doing their jobs well. Many owners feel compelled to control contractor performance to ensure the work meets their high standards. However, regulations for independent contractors clearly state that contractors must have control over how they perform their roles. If an agency owner restricts this, it can blur the lines into an employer/employee relationship. Misclassification, as determined by the state or IRS, can lead to fines, back taxes, and potential business loss. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of utilizing contractors for agency work,…
