Doulas are for everyone. The notion that doulas are only for “posh people” really bothers me. I’m not here to tell you how to spend your money. I’m not here to tell you that you have to have a doula to have the birth you want.
But I will say, having a doula isn’t some massive luxury. It’s not reserved for the privileged or the rich. Framing the sort of support doula’s offer as “extra” is a way of undermining people’s rights in childbirth.
People give birth. Everyone deserves to be supported emotionally and physically when giving birth. Everyone deserves to have bodily autonomy and good information. Everyone deserves continuity of care.
I often hear from parents postnatally how unprepared they felt for the realities of birthing in an underfunded maternity system. It isn't unreasonable to expect the level of care I describe to be available in the healthcare system we all contribute to. Whilst it may not be unreasonable, it is sadly for the most part, unrealistic.
Too often, as women and birthing people, we come to birth socialised not to value our own experiences. Having a healthy baby is not all that matters. Your experience of birth is worth investing in.
If having doula care feels right for you, don’t deprive yourself of that because of some notion that it’s an extravagance that’s only for the few. Whatever your circumstances there’s a doula out there for you.
Many doulas, myself included, go to great lengths to make their care as affordable as possible. Affordable doula care is relative. The sliding scale pricing scheme I use is a starting point. If you are looking for affordable doula care and don't know where to begin, then let's talk. I might not be the doula for you, but I'm happy to signpost you to doula services that align with your needs and budget.
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