In the face of this injustice, doulas have emerged as powerful advocates for people giving birth, playing a vital role in preventing obstetric violence by providing support, education, and advocacy.

The role of a doula is traditionally associated with birth—holding space for families as they welcome new life into the world. However, the scope of doula work can extend far beyond that single moment, encompassing the entire spectrum of life: birth, postpartum, trauma, grief, and even death. For those who are both full-spectrum doulas and end-of-life or death doulas, the work we do is interwoven with the sacred cycles of life and death, joy and sorrow, beginnings and endings.

Becoming a doula is often rooted in passion—a deep desire to support families during one of

the most significant moments of their lives. The role is sacred, intimate, and incredibly

rewarding, but like any profession, it comes with its share of challenges. Doula work is not just

about birth; it’s about being present in both the joyful and difficult moments of a family’s journey.

So, let’s dive into the ins and outs of what being a doula truly involves.

Birth is a profound experience, one that marks the beginning of a new life and the transformation of a family. It’s a moment filled with emotions, anticipation, and a whirlwind of activity. For those of us in the birth profession, it's a privilege to be a part of this journey. As both a birth doula and a birth photographer, I’ve had the unique opportunity to witness and document this transformative experience in ways that intertwine both support and artistry. Here’s a glimpse into what it’s like to wear both hats and how these roles complement each other in the sacred space of birth.

As the demand for doula services increases, more people are recognizing the invaluable support doulas provide during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. However, despite this growing awareness, many agencies and organizations continue to undercharge for doula services, creating a harmful cycle that devalues the profession. This practice not only hurts individual doulas but also undermines the entire doula community—particularly those who are trying to charge a fair rate for their time, expertise, and care.

Think about it—when we refer clients to other professionals like lactation consultants, pelvic floor physiotherapists, or chiropractors, we don’t take any money from those referrals. Our focus is on getting families the support they need, not on pocketing a referral fee. Why shouldn’t the same principle apply when organizations send clients our way? Instead of taking 30-40% of a doula’s income, why not foster a collaborative environment where we can refer clients to one another without taking money out of anyone’s pocket?