March 13, 2022
In my last post, I mentioned all the reasons why you need to get a doula if you are planning to get pregnant or are already pregnant. I realized there were two important bits of information that you need to keep in mind. This will make your selection process smoother. Additionally, I curated a list of doulas and doula programs (all in New York City) that you can look into if you are interested (you should be!).
Types of Doulas
Three types of doulas serve varying needs that you may have:
Birth Doulas
Birth doulas meet with a pregnant woman before and after giving birth to help her prepare for the birth, assist with breastfeeding, and arm the mother with information on the initial stages of parenting. They are also advocates of respectful birthing and can help the pregnant person navigate hospital policies and handle all communications between family and staff.
Postpartum Doulas
Postpartum doulas step in after birth, hence the term, postpartum. They assist the pregnant person with breastfeeding, bonding techniques for mom and baby, as well as physical recovery.
Community-Based Doulas
Community-based doulas are referred to as culturally sensitive doulas. They are trained to focus on and address the needs of pregnant people residing in specific communities that have adverse birth outcomes.
Choosing the Right Doula for You
You are in charge of the people surrounding you during this sacred moment. Don’t just settle for a doula because you want one; it is equally important that you like your doula. It will make this journey more beautiful for you and your family.
Doula Programs in New York City
Here is a list of doula programs in New York City that you can contact to start your journey:
Ancient Song Doula Services
- Email: chanel@ancientsongdoulaservices.com
- Phone: 347-778-3490
- Website: Ancient Song Doula Services
- About: Ancient Song is a national birth justice organization working to eliminate maternal and infant mortality and morbidity among Black and Latinx people. They provide doula training and services, offer community education, and advocate for policy change to support reproductive and birth justice.
- Phone: 212-749-6613
- Email: hello@doulacare.com
- Website: Doula Care
- Service area: New York City
- Email: info@mamaglow.com
- Website: Mama Glow
- Service area: New YorkAbout: Mama Glow is a destination for hip expectant and new moms to explore optimal well-being and celebrate pregnancy and motherhood.
- Phone: 718-826-2942
- Website: CWHA
- Service area: Brooklyn, NY
- Phone: 646-617-9927
- Email: jen@babycaravan.com
- Website: Baby Caravan
- Service areas: 5 boroughs in NYC, Jersey City, Hoboken in New Jersey, parts of Westchester, and parts of Long Island
- Phone: 347-699-0816
- Website: Carriage House Birth
- Service areas: NYC and Los Angeles
- Phone: 646-504-8272
- Email: nycbirthvillage@gmail.com
- Website: NYC Birth Village
- Service areas: All 5 boroughs and parts of New Jersey and Long Island
- Phone: 917-795-1186
- Email: mylovingdoula@gmail.com
- Website: My Loving Doula
- Service areas: Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island