Dublin Doula Jen

knew that was my calling in life. This is who I was meant to be. So when I was asked to volunteer for a charity that supports Ireland’s tiniest babies and empower their parents, I didn’t have to think too hard about it before I jumped right in. I was a Director and the Breastfeeding Coordinator for the charity Irish Premature Babies (IPB) for 3 years.Stepping down in January 2016. http://www.irishprematurebabies.com/ This has given me an intimate insight into the struggles many new parents face. Working with some of the most vulnerable babies in Ireland has really opened my eyes to the strength new parents have. I have watched hundreds of them grow from an overwhelmed parent in total shock to speaking all the medical lingo and working the monitors in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) like a pro. Many of these families will stay in my heart for as long as I live – their love, devotion and determination for their baby/babies and their superhuman strength is something I aspire to. During my time working with IPB, I have also attended many hospital workshops, meetings and action plans. I have met with health care professionals from all walks of life and gained a great understanding of hospital policies and practice surrounding birth and early parenthood. I saw first-hand the great medical care families receive but the emotional side was severely lacking. My passion was ignited from this time and I looked into things I could do to pave the way of change. I decided to become an Antenatal Teacher (to hold classes for expectant parents where we discuss pregnancy, birth and early parenthood.) but I wanted to find a course where parents were empowered and thought about informed decision making. This would leave them confident in their choices and ability to birth their baby. I found the perfect course with Cuidiu, Irish Childbirth Trust. I began my training in 2014 and my first course teaching was September 2016. These classes are parent led and are independent of all hospitals. I am also a voluntary breastfeeding counsellor with Cuidiu, Irish Childbirth Trust. This is a free service where counsellors volunteer their time in order to support breast feeding mothers in their community. I have made some great friends during these courses and look forward to each day with them www.cuidiu-ict.ie/

So I felt content that I would have the knowledge to encourage and support expectant parents, but what about creating a link with those wonderful new babies? In 2015 I decided to train as a Postnatal Doula. I have loved every second, immersing myself in all things baby. Hearing about powerful stories of birth and strength. Learning from the knowledge of all the Doulas who have come before, drawing on their wisdom and experience. In October 2015 I trained as a Birth Doula also. I went for international training with DONA www.dona.org/ and to be honest I am still on a high from both the training and positive energy from the fellow Doulas. I am also a committee member of the Doula Association of Ireland (DAI), who are celebrating 10 years in Ireland. The DAI have some amazing women in their organisation, from all different walks of life. www.doula.ie

Having so many contacts in many diverse areas to do with birth and early parenthood allows me to stay up to date with local policies and practices. It also gives me great support as I have many strong women to draw upon if I am struggling with something. They are a fountain of knowledge and I adore each and every one of them for keeping my excitement and passion about birth and early parenting alive. What do I do as a Doula? As a Postpartum Doula I provide non-medical physical and emotional support and household assistance after the birth of your baby. I can provide support to help your recovery and assist you with the care and feeding of your new baby, including breastfeeding assistance, bathing, and comfort measures. I do not take over care of your baby, but assist you in learning to care for your baby's needs yourself. I can provide childcare during naps so that parents can get some much needed rest. I will also be glad to do some light housekeeping including laundry, household organization and tidying. I also am happy to prepare snacks/meals. This is a professional service that will allow your family to thrive during those first few weeks with your baby, not just survive! Call or email me to find out more and to arrange our no obligation interview :)

I cover all of Dublin and into surrounding counties. For full services and rates please visit my website www.dublindoulajen.com