Returning to the birth world as a birth doula means...
- remembering to bring my cell phone when I leave the house
- reminding myself to take a deep breath, relax my tense muscles and resist the energy that builds when I wonder if I'll be awakened with a phone call from a laboring client
- planning for my children's care if I'm called to a birth
- packing a bag with massage tools, a soft woven wrap (to use with squatting, belly-lifting or makeshift blanket), and other items that may be of use for the laboring mother
- talking with my older children about back-up plans for if I am at a birth and their routine needs to change
- packing my breastpump and making sure I have all the equipment necessary (flanges, bottles, plug-in power source)
- looking ahead in my agenda to see what may need to be rearranged when I have to cancel
- putting comfortable shoes and clothes aside to wear when I join the laboring woman
- talking with my partner about how he will need to support our family if I'm called away
- being well-rested, nourished and otherwise prepared to support a laboring family
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