A beautiful beginning!
Baby Lennix
Well worth the wait!
My First Doula Birth: A Beautiful Beginning
Whew — I finally attended my first birth as a doula. If I had to sum up the experience in one word, it would be beautiful. There’s something so deeply powerful and sacred about watching a human body go through labor and delivery. It left me in complete awe of what we are capable of.
But let me be real — I hope I didn’t show it, but I was a nervous wreck.
Even after almost two years of studying, learning, and even teaching about birth, a little imposter syndrome crept in. For a moment, I felt like I didn’t belong in the room — like I wasn’t prepared enough. But then I remembered the same advice we give our birthing parents: you can’t plan everything. Birth isn’t about following a script — it’s about adapting, adjusting, and finding what works in each specific moment, for each unique contraction.
And that’s exactly what I did.
I couldn’t have asked for a better couple to begin this journey with. From our very first prenatal visit, the Powell family made me feel incredibly welcome. They trusted me, asked questions, and were open to trying anything I suggested. I truly hope they felt supported and seen — and that I brought some knowledge and calm to their journey into parenthood (again!).
The hospital staff also surprised me in the best way. I’ve heard my fair share of stories about doulas and nurses clashing, but the team I worked with was warm and encouraging. They welcomed me into the space and appreciated my support for the family. I even had the chance to translate a bit of what the nurse said and adjust some comfort measures based on what was being communicated.
Speaking of comfort measures — let me tell you, those massage roller balls are officially my holy grail. Out of everything I packed, they were the MVP. Note to self, though: I definitely didn’t need to lug around half the stuff I brought. Lesson learned.
Despite my initial worry that I’d be too tired or hungry, the adrenaline and focus carried me through. I took quick breaks when needed but stayed present as much as possible. Watching that mama labor with so much strength — even when things got hard — filled me with pride. She was amazing. Truly.
When her baby finally arrived, it was like we all exhaled for the first time in hours. The room filled with joy, relief, and overwhelming love. My heart was bursting. I could not have asked for a more meaningful first birth experience.
I will forever be thankful to the Powell family for trusting me with their care, their birth, and their baby. This was just the beginning — and I can’t wait to support many more families on their birth journeys. 💛
#DoulaDiaries #FirstBirth #GratefulHeart #BirthWork
