This is a series highlighting folks who identify as Radical Doulas. Are you interested in being part of the series? Go here to provide your responses to the profile questions and I’ll include you!
www.hypnobirthingoc.com
hypnobirthingoc@gmail.com
What inspired you to become a doula?
When I was pregnant with my first child, I knew I wanted to have a natural birth at a hospital which meant I needed a doula. I had a WONDERFUL experience birthing him naturally, but was not happy with my treatment at the hospital. It was a combination of that joy and disappointment that created this passion to help other pregnant women find their own birthing power.
Why do you identify with the term radical doula?
I feel like a bit of an outcast in my conservative community. I am an athiest and profoundly pro-choice, which creates a bit of discord with my contemporaries. I now realize there is a term for me, and that is “radical”!
What is your doula philosophy and how does it fit into your broader political beliefs?
I believe all women have a right to bodily autonomy in ALL situations – including abortion, miscarriage, and birth. It’s this passion that inspires me to educate myself as much as I can to better serve women who are underserved by our current maternal health care system.
What is your favorite thing about being a doula?
Working with pregnant women to empower themselves, and watching babies be born!
If you could change one thing about the experience of pregnancy and birth, what would it be? The elimination of fear. I’m deeply saddened by how many women fear such a natural process, so much so that they risk their own babies’ safety by medicating the experience. If I knew an easier way to dispel these fears, I would!
Radical Doula 