Doulas of the Roundtable
Doulas of the Roundtable, A modern twist on an ancient concept. A place where all voices are equal, knowledge is shared and hard topics are talked about.
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Episode 133: Doula Mistakes
04/11/2024
Episode 133: Doula Mistakes
Doula mistakes come in all shapes and sizes. We're human, so it's understandable that mistakes will happen. Some mistakes will be unavoidable and only discovered through trial and error. Others can be avoided. Common mistakes include a lack of effective communication, such as being slow or failing to follow up on inquiries or client communications. For labor doulas, there can be a sharp learning curve in incorporating the on-call life into daily life. This includes making sure that we are available to our clients via our preferred communication methods. From a phone that dies to forgetting that we put our phone on silent, these doula mistakes can cause a breakdown in trust between a potential or actual client and the doula. Whether you are a labor or postpartum doula, the potential for mistakes is real. Join us as we discuss common mistakes and how they can be avoided or remedied.
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Episode 132: Doula Beginnings
03/28/2024
Episode 132: Doula Beginnings
One of the most common questions we hear is, "How do we navigate the question of how many clients we have supported when we first start out?" The question "How many births have you attended?" Or "How many families have you supported postpartum?" is not uncommon. Certain personality types are more inclined to ask these types of questions. For them, the answer will be part of their decision-making process. Yet, for some, the actual number will matter far less than the actual answer provided. Honesty is always the best policy, so being truthful with the number is essential. However, the additional information you can provide regarding how many hours of training, other certifications, and life experience you bring to the table can also be conveyed to those who inquire. Join us as we explore the many ways you can confidently answer this question.
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Episode 131: Supporting Single Parents
03/14/2024
Episode 131: Supporting Single Parents
Supporting single parents through pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period looks different than supporting those who are partnered. How we approach labor or postpartum support with an unpartnered parent will look different. Many factors will be different when planning for labor. For example, will they get to their birth location? Or who will make medical decisions about the laboring person's care if no other family support is available and the pregnant person is not able to make a decision? For most, creating a medical directive isn't on the list of preparations for labor. Support during the postpartum period is equally important. Will the client have friends or family to help in the early days or weeks after birth? Is there a plan for when this support will start to dwindle naturally? As postpartum doulas, it's easy to assume that overnight support may be more necessary for single clients. But for many, there are often other times of the day when they find they struggle more. Helping clients identify these areas of struggle and plan for how to address them is an important part of our role. It is important to be aware of our biases when approaching these conversations. Join us as we discuss how to approach these conversations with unpartnered clients.
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Episode 130: Finding the Evidence
02/29/2024
Episode 130: Finding the Evidence
As birth professionals, providing evidence-based information to our clients is essential. However, it's not uncommon to wonder where to find quality research. Knowing how to read and interpret the evidence is also a skill that takes time and discernment. The first step is understanding the types of studies that exist. From randomized controlled trials to cohort studies to cross-sectional studies, knowing what type of study to look for is essential. The next step is to look at the entire study, not just the abstract. It's important to read and understand the full text. It is also important to look for any disclosures surrounding conflicts of interest. A conflict of interest could result in bias within the study. Join us as we look at the many factors that go into finding and providing evidence-based information to our clients.
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Episode 129: Vulvar Cancer
02/15/2024
Episode 129: Vulvar Cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, vulvar cancer accounts for 6% of all cancers of the female reproductive organs. Over 1600 individuals will die from vulvar cancer per year. Cancers of the uterus, cervix, and ovaries are far more well-known, identified, and diagnosed. Yet, cancer of the vulva is a diagnosis that is often hard to obtain. Often, the symptoms can be mistakenly attributed to other skin conditions or yeast and bacterial growth. As a result, many individuals may experience a delay in diagnosis and treatment. This can often result in a delay of treatment for literally years. As with any cancer early detection and treatment leads to improved outcomes. Join us as we discuss one person's journey through vulvar cancer to bring awareness and identify the resources and support that doulas can provide.
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Episode 128: Advanced Maternal Age
02/01/2024
Episode 128: Advanced Maternal Age
Advanced maternal age is defined as a pregnant individual who is 35 years of age or older at the estimated due date or date of delivery. Pregnancy at or beyond this age is considered a risk factor for adverse outcomes in the birthing person and baby. When one is considered "advanced" in age, it is common for closer monitoring to be recommended during pregnancy. Induction of labor or elective cesarean birth are both considered appropriate options for managing labor and birth. For the pregnant person, being labeled and frequently reminded of their "advanced" age can lead to many challenging emotions. Some individuals may desire to assert boundaries surrounding discussions about their age. Instead, they may prefer to focus on their actual risks vs the perceived or statistical risk. Join us as we discuss the many complexities of supporting clients of "advanced" age during pregnancy.
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Episode 127: Combination Feeding
01/18/2024
Episode 127: Combination Feeding
Combination feeding is one of many approaches families choose when feeding their baby. It may be the plan from the start. Or, clients may find themselves settling into combination feeding due to postpartum challenges. Some parents may feel that taking on 100% of the responsibility for infant feeding is an overwhelming task. For these individuals, sharing the task of infant feeding can help them show up as the best version of themselves. Our role is to help them identify their goals, and help them build a plan to get there. Some may desire to give their baby breast milk exclusively. For these parents helping them build a plan that incorporates pumping will be essential. The parent who desires to use formula in addition to feeding at the breast will have a plan that looks much different. Join us as we explore the practical and emotional sides of combination feeding.
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Episode 126: Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders
01/03/2024
Episode 126: Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders impact 15-21% of pregnant and postpartum individuals, according to the National Institute of Health. As birth professionals, it is likely that you will encounter a client who experiences a mood or anxiety disorder during pregnancy or after birth. We must be able to identify the signs and symptoms of those who may be struggling. For many, their labor or postpartum doula may be the first person they see and speak to about what they are experiencing long before their postpartum follow-up visit with their provider. Join us as we discuss the various ways pregnant and postpartum individuals experience perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, as well as the statistics surrounding PMADS.
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Episode: 125 Season 5 Wrap Up
12/21/2023
Episode: 125 Season 5 Wrap Up
It's been a busy, amazing year of growth, learning, and success. Here we are again at the end of another amazing season. Looking back over the past year, it's always fun to see our most popular episodes and share our favorites. As always, your love and passion for the topics we talk about are seen, heard, and felt so very much. We appreciate the interaction and feedback you have been giving us on our social media platforms, and if you haven't found us yet, check us out on TikTok. We look forward to another great season of chatting about the topics we love most!
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Episode 124: Website Essentials
12/07/2023
Episode 124: Website Essentials
When it comes to your website, there are a few website essentials that you should be sure to include. There are also common traps that you should avoid. Your website is the virtual storefront of your business. Often, it will be the first impression that a prospective client will encounter. As a result, you must make an excellent first impression. This first impression goes far beyond the aesthetic of your website. The content of your website's pages is critical to encouraging someone to reach out and learn more. It's not uncommon for individuals to struggle with writing content for their website. It's not unusual to try and reach out to resources like ChatGPT to have the content created externally. However, these types of platforms often sound like AI, and they do not represent the voice of your business. Join us along with our special guest and business consultant, Randy Patterson, as we discuss the essential pages for your website, how to represent your brand's voice, and how to speak to your potential clients in a way that helps them understand how your services will benefit them.
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Episode 123: Virtual vs. In Person Trainings
11/22/2023
Episode 123: Virtual vs. In Person Trainings
Choosing between virtual or in-person training is one of the first choices often made when considering the many pathways to becoming a doula. Both formats offer pros and cons to learners. Which format may work best for you will depend on many factors. Do you thrive in more independent learning? Or do you thrive in a classroom setting? Do you learn best by listening or by doing? There are many other considerations, such as neurodiversity and the inclusion of different learning styles to accommodate all learners. The choice between virtual vs in-person training is unique. Utilizing both formats will enable some to feel confident and ready to take their skills to the next level. Join us as we discuss the many nuances of virtual vs in-person training.
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Episode 122: Supporting The Third Stage
11/10/2023
Episode 122: Supporting The Third Stage
The methods of support provided during the third stage of labor are many. How the third stage progresses will determine the type of support appropriate for each client. Assistance with bonding, the initiation of breastfeeding, and supporting a client through a perineal tear are all ways in which a client may need the support of their doula. It is also essential for the doula to be aware of complications that may arise during the third stage to best help a client experiencing one. Complications such as postpartum hemorrhage, placenta accreta, or the need for other post-birth interventions may arise without warning. Knowing how to support the client and their partner or other support person is integral to the doula's role. Join us as we explore the many ways to support clients through the third stage of labor.
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Episode 121: Understanding Birth Related Trauma
10/27/2023
Episode 121: Understanding Birth Related Trauma
Understanding birth-related trauma is an essential skill for all individuals who work in the perinatal field. The fundamental definition of trauma is: a deeply distressing or disturbing experience. When working with birthing or newly postpartum families, we may encounter clients who will identify their experience as traumatic. It is never our role to define or redefine the language a client uses when sharing their experience. Sitting with someone in their trauma and supporting them through it is a learned skill. However, a lack of knowledge is not an excuse for a lack of sympathy or support. Join us as we discuss how to support families through birth-related trauma by referencing Evidence and Guidelines for Trauma-Informed Doula Care by Elizabeth Mosley as well as discussing the nuances of supporting clients who have experienced trauma.
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Episode 120: Expectations vs Realities in Doula Work
10/12/2023
Episode 120: Expectations vs Realities in Doula Work
The expectations vs the realities of doula work can be vast. Many people consider entering this work, thinking it will be sunshine and rainbows. Experiencing birth and cuddling babies is often high on these lists. One of the very first stark realities that most doulas face is the fact that they are starting a business. It's easy to focus on just working with families who want or need your help. While doing so, many fail to consider that they are becoming a self-employed business owner. As a doula, you are selling a service, but at the same time, you are also selling yourself as a provider of that service. Communication is another reality of doula work. Dependability and responsiveness in communication are essential when working with pregnant or newly parenting families. Clients need to know that we are there when they need us. This starts from the very first touch. Whether it's a quick response to an email or simply picking up the phone when it rings, the response or lack thereof can send an obvious message. Join us as we discuss the expectations and realities of doula work.
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Episode 119: The Value of Childbirth Education
09/29/2023
Episode 119: The Value of Childbirth Education
Childbirth education is a way for pregnant individuals to learn about the process of birth and what options may exist. It does this through expelling fear and increasing knowledge. In addition, it teaches pregnant people how to advocate for their wishes. However, the role of the doula and the role of the childbirth educator seem very similar but the approach to providing information is actually quite different. The sequence of support for doulas is emotions first, feelings second, what do they need or want to know, then what do they want to do. Childbirth educators start with information first. What do their learners want or need to know or what do they already know. Then how do they feel about the options/information presented. Finally, what are they going to do with the information they have learned. What decisions will the make about their preferences with the information they have learned? Come join us as we discuss the process and value of childbirth education and how we can form connection and community as educators.
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Episode 118: Supporting Pushing
09/11/2023
Episode 118: Supporting Pushing
For many, the pushing phase of labor is an exciting yet scary part of the labor process. Many individuals have concerns or fears surrounding the pushing phase of labor. From tearing to their infant's safety, a doula is needed for emotional and physical support. Supporting a client through this phase begins during pregnancy. Here, we can help clients explore how they would like to push and what positions they may prefer to give birth in. This is a process of discussion and discovery for the client. Many may not be aware of the multitude of options and positions that exist when it comes to this stage of labor. There are many options, from passive descent to coached pushing to standing, squatting, side-lying, or semi-sitting. It is also important to remember that preferences before pushing begins may change once the pushing process begins. Join us as we discuss the nuances of supporting clients through the second stage of labor.
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Episode 117: Agency Interviews
08/31/2023
Episode 117: Agency Interviews
We often see questions among doulas about agency interviews. There are a lot of specific questions about what to expect and what questions to ask the agency. Each agency will have specific questions that they feel are important to ask. So, what you may encounter will vary from agency to agency. However, some questions will overlap between businesses. It is common for agencies to want to know what training you have taken. If you haven't yet taken a training, they may point you in the direction of the training they prefer or may have the most need for to utilize you best. Presenting your authentic self in agency interviews is also important. Many agency owners deeply believe in how this prospective doula "feels." It's okay to feel nervous but coming to the table with your authentic self is important for both sides. When looking to join an agency, asking the agency what services are most in demand is a great way to assess if they offer what you want to provide. It will also help you determine what additional education you may want to pursue to offer more through the agency. Another important question often surrounds compensation. How much will you be paid for the services you provide? Join us as we discuss both sides of the agency interview and what that may look like.
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Episode 116: Benefits of Placenta Services
08/17/2023
Episode 116: Benefits of Placenta Services
There are many benefits to adding placenta services as a part of the services you offer. While there is a benefit to the clients who utilize this service, there are also benefits to those who offer it. Processing the placenta for encapsulation in the client's home brings a wealth of benefits to the client in addition to safety. It also allows the encapsulator to sit down with the client and check on how they are recovering from birth. In addition, they can also check in on the newborn and how they are transitioning to life outside the uterus. Offering encapsulation as a labor doula allows you to continue your support into the postpartum period. It also allows for those who are also postpartum doulas to introduce the benefits of this type of support to the client. It gives the opportunity to affirm the client in how they are caring for their baby. Encourages them to ask questions and for you to provide necessary or requested resources. Join is as we discuss the many benefits to clients and birth professionals of placenta services.
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Episode 115: Client Conversations
08/02/2023
Episode 115: Client Conversations
Learning how to initiate and lead conversations between prospective clients and clients is an essential skill in doula work. Yet at times, doulas often feel unsure about what to ask or how to keep the client conversations going. Beyond the core questions of due date, location of delivery, and basic contact information, what other information a doula feels is important to learn will vary from individual to individual. When thinking of potential client conversations, consider asking questions that allow you to create an organic flow that helps the prospective client visualize what it would be like to have your support. These conversations cultivate a connection, build trust and mutual respect, and facilitate bonding. Join us as we explore the considerations for what to ask and how to keep the conversations rolling.
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Episode 114: Supporting Active Labor
07/20/2023
Episode 114: Supporting Active Labor
There are many facets to consider when supporting a client through active labor. This stage of labor is often an opportunity to become more physically active and present in client support. However, it is also important to remember to alternate periods of activity with rest during active labor. When supporting clients through this stage of labor, it is essential to remember to match the mood of the room. As the client becomes more internally focused, conversation and excitement will fade. It is common for conversations to move from sentences to one-word replies. When providing support during this stage, it's also helpful to consider the senses of the laboring person. Sights, sounds, and smells that may have been comforting initially may become a distraction. The type of touch that feels good will often change as well. It is also important to remember that what works or doesn't work in terms of comfort can change throughout labor. So revisiting positions or comfort measures that didn't work previously may bring comfort later. Join us as we discuss the many options for supporting a client through active labor.
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Episode 113: Free Samples
07/06/2023
Episode 113: Free Samples
A common inquiry in many online doula communities is where to find free samples to give to clients. While it's likely true that most people love a freebie, are they actually free? Many individuals don't consider the cost of their time in requesting, processing, storing, and handing out freebies. Additionally, many companies that give out products for freebies are multimillion-dollar companies with marketing budgets to promote their product. But the birth professionals are not compensated for their time, recommendation, and efforts. When considering giving out freebies to clients, it's also essential to consider the message that may be sent. Could handing out a sample of lactation tea send the message that it is necessary in order to breastfeed successfully? Or does giving out samples of nipple balm set the expectation that it is necessary? Join us as we discuss the pros and possible cons of handing out freebies to clients.
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Episode 112: Continuing Education
06/22/2023
Episode 112: Continuing Education
As birth professionals, education surrounding the perinatal period is an ongoing process. While it is impossible to learn everything about pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, countless opportunities are available to expand your knowledge base. But how do you decide which topics to choose? When thinking about continuing education, think out of the box. Postpartum doulas may benefit from a culinary course to assist with meal prep or to offer postpartum meal planning. Labor doulas may benefit from childbirth education training to deepen their knowledge of pregnancy and birth. Also, consider continuous education that will expand your global knowledge. Courses about trauma-informed care, and working with people who are differently abled, neurodiverse, or a part of the LGBTQIA+ communities may benefit you based on the demographic you serve. Join us as we discuss the various options and considerations for continuous education.
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Episode 111: Social Media Boundaries
06/08/2023
Episode 111: Social Media Boundaries
Undoubtedly, social media plays a big role in our lives and how we communicate with the world. Social media platforms have become a big part of marketing products and services. Learning how to navigate social media as a business owner creates unique challenges. One of the challenges is creating and maintaining social media boundaries. As business owners, birth workers must determine how little or how much of their business and lives are shared on social media. On platforms such as Facebook, you can create groups and post to only those groups. This allows friends and family to see the post while preventing clients from seeing it. Some individuals may create separate accounts for personal vs. business use. Others may choose to add clients and colleagues to their personal profiles. Ask yourself if you mind potential clients or the clients you currently serve seeing what you post on your personal profile. From Facebook to Instagram to Tiktok, deciding how and with whom you would like to share your content is an important decision. Join us as we discuss the social media boundaries you may want to consider for your business.
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Episode 110: The Value of Doula Work
05/23/2023
Episode 110: The Value of Doula Work
When we think about the value of doula work, we must consider two perspectives—the perspective of the doula and the client's perspective. Before a doula can successfully market their services, they must understand their value to potential clients. While the hallmark of doula work is providing support, the doula must sell their service before client support can begin. Many doulas struggle to communicate the monetary value of their services. There is a tendency for doulas to undervalue their services. Many are encouraged to provide services for free either from training organizations or other doulas in their community. Many doulas set the value of doula work based on their socioeconomic status. It's scary for doulas to price services at a rate they can't afford. Others set the value of their services based on how capable they feel of providing client support. When a doula doesn't know how to sell their services, they often want to give them away. Join us as we discuss how doulas can value themselves to help prospective clients understand the value that the doula can bring to their birth or parenting experience.
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Episode 109: Supporting Early Labor
05/11/2023
Episode 109: Supporting Early Labor
Supporting early labor is a necessary skill for labor doulas. Yet many doulas may not know how to approach early labor from a mindset of patience vs the instinct to try to move labor along. Early labor can be a time of anxiety and doubt for expecting families. Contractions may come and go, and they often wonder, "Is this labor?" They often look to their doulas for support and advice. The tincture of time is one of the most useful tools for supporting clients through early labor. Yet many doulas recommend activities such as walking, sex, nipple stimulation and may other approaches that risk physically exhausting the client long before active labor begins. We recommend a different approach to our clients. Our approach focuses on rest, relaxation and distraction. The reality is that early labor is a 'diagnosis' made in retrospect. Contractions don't always mean labor. Uterine irritability, dehydration, Braxton-Hicks contractions or even prodromal labor may trigger contractions. Join us as we discuss how we help clients navigate the complexities, excitement and frustrations of early labor.
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Episode 108: Navigating Doula Fees and Payments
04/27/2023
Episode 108: Navigating Doula Fees and Payments
One of the more challenging aspects of becoming a doula is navigating doula fees and payments. One of the most common decisions is how to take payment for the services you will provide. There is a tendency for doulas to want to avoid credit card processing fees. They often do this by using peer-to-peer payment options such as Paypal, Venmo or platforms such as Cashapp. Using these payment systems as an individual vs. as a business and with the related processing fees to you is a common but dangerous practice. Using a personal account for business transactions can result in the account being closed and the funds lost. In addition to how you will be paid, you must decide the structure for the payments you will receive. Many doulas do this by charging a retainer fee due at contract signing. Then a determination will need to be made about when the remaining balance will be paid. Another key point surrounding doula fees and payments is to clearly understand how you allocate your fees. First, consider what percentage will go towards taxes. Second, what percentage will you keep in the business to pay for operational expenses? In addition, you will need to determine what your budget is for things such as marketing, continuing education, and costs such as your phone line and website. Join us as we discuss the many considerations surrounding doula fees and payments.
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Episode 107: Supporting Transitional Labor
04/11/2023
Episode 107: Supporting Transitional Labor
Transitional labor is the third phase of the first stage of labor. It is also considered the most challenging phase of labor, especially for those giving birth without pain medication. During the transition phase of labor, contractions occur every 1-2 minutes and last approximately 60-90 seconds. The cervix dilates from 8-10 centimeters. This is the phase of labor where many laboring individuals want to quit. They may express an inability to go on. Or may question their desire to avoid pain medication. This is often the phase of labor where a client may express, "I don't want to do this anymore. I want to go home. I can't do this. Please make it stop." Physical signs of transition may include shaking, sweating, and feelings of anxiety or panic. As the baby moves lower into the pelvis, some individuals may experience burping or passing gas, rectal pressure, or the urge to bear down. These signs are often present in those who have received pain medication. Join us as we discuss how to support clients through transitional labor and how why this phase of labor can present a challenge to birthing individuals.
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Episode 106: Doula Professionalism
03/31/2023
Episode 106: Doula Professionalism
Professionalism has many definitions, and how one exhibits doula professionalism in their doula work will vary. We believe that professionalism means that we embody integrity and accountability, responsibly conduct ourselves, and always present the best versions of ourselves in our work. This means we have solid systems to navigate prospective clients through our hiring process efficiently. From the first contact to signing the contract, individuals seeking our care are learning about what it is like to experience our support. Their interactions will shape their desire for our ongoing support and determine if they feel safe in our presence. Boundaries are also an essential part of professionalism. Boundaries around our time and when we work. This may mean scheduled time off. Or a weekly schedule that gives us time off to focus on family. Boundaries around contracts and money are also essential. Other aspects of professionalism include phone/video call etiquette and our appearance. Join us as we discuss why doula professionalism is important and how to define what that means to you.
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Episode 105: Poverty Mindset
03/15/2023
Episode 105: Poverty Mindset
The poverty mindset is common in doula work. According to Alan Weiss: "A poverty mentality is one that influences behaviors consistent with beliefs that money shouldn't be spent, opportunities are limited, any risk at all is dangerous, any success is temporary and non-replicable, and generally remaining in the back of the pack is safest." Many individuals come to birth work believing their work opportunities are limited. The reality is that birth work offers upward mobility or the ability to move up in socioeconomic status. Creating diversity in birth work allows birth workers to move themselves and their families out of poverty. When coupled with codependence, or the need to be needed, along with the historical message that birth workers should self-sacrifice in terms of money and physical efforts, it's no wonder the burnout rate amongst birth workers is so high. The reality is that most birth workers need to make money to make their work sustainable mentally, physically, and financially. Yet the poverty mindset often holds birth workers back from long-term success whether it is the resistance to invest money into ongoing training and education. Or the unwillingness to take risks that could lead to growth. The poverty mindset is a powerful motivator for limiting beliefs restricting growth and success. Join us as we explore the poverty mindset, how to identify it, and how to overcome it.
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Episode 104: Supporting Client Decisions
03/03/2023
Episode 104: Supporting Client Decisions
As doulas supporting client decisions plays a key role in our care. While there are many approaches to this side of our work, there are also many potential barriers. One of the most prominent barriers is the bias that birth workers bring into their work while supporting client decisions. We see this when doulas say, "I support my client in making informed decisions." Or, "As long as my client is making an informed decision, I support whatever they choose." The reality for most individuals is that decisions are not primarily made on what 'best evidence' or research says. Many individuals will instead make decisions based on what their intuition tells them or based on the opinions of those they trust. Those individuals often include family, friends, providers, and even their doula. As doulas, we have a powerful influence on our client's decision-making process. This is why doulas must be free from their own biases and able to provide nonjudgmental support. Join us as we explore the approaches and pitfalls of supporting client decisions.
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