Why I Became a DoulaIn May, 1993, I attended birthing classes with a friend, Lisa. The instructor spoke briefly about doulas and their roles. This really caught my interest. Lisa's baby was breech and became a scheduled caesarean section. I didn't think much more about doulas until August, 1998, when another friend, Linda, was expecting. We were talking about the birth of her first child and anticipating what to expect with her second birth. I brought up my interest in finding out more about being a doula, which Linda had never heard of. Linda invited me to attend her birth. I was so excited, but wanted her husband and family to understand and feel comfortable with the idea that I was going to be active in labor support (as much as I knew at that time). The special day came and Linda was doing great. Her husband and I worked together to keep her focused and relaxed. Linda delivered an 8 lb., 8 oz. baby girl without the use of any medication. It was such a thrilling experience for me to be present. I will never forget how I felt at the time of her birth. Afterward, as Linda, Bronson, and I visited, Linda explained how much better an experience it was for her with another woman's support. Bronson expressed that he felt all the pressures of Linda's needs were not on his shoulders, and, for that reason, he enjoyed being involved with the delivery more. I have since completed my doula certification and have opened Coastal Bend Birth Connection, Inc.
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