Being a doula means being in a constant state of learning. Every birth is different. Every woman is different. Just when you think you know something, you realize that there is so much more to learn.
This year, I plan to begin attending births as an apprentice with my midwife, in addition to continuing my doula practice. I am excited about this new chapter in my life. I want to serve the women in my community. This will mean more reading and studying.....which also means prioritizing my life.
Some wonder why I would choose such a path when Certified Professional Midwives are not legally recognized in NC. The answer is simple - someone has to do it. Right now, in the Charlotte area, the options for homebirth are limited to a few midwives who shoulder the load of this homebirth community. As the homebirth movement grows, so does the demand for qualified, competent midwives. Women deserve options. Women need options. I have a passion to give those options to them.
What does this mean for my doula practice? I don't intend to practice any differently. I will still continue to support women in the hospital setting. Standing for choice means I believe that a woman should be able to give birth in the place of her choosing, with the practitioner of her choosing.
I hope that somehow, in 2009, I can inspire women to embrace all of their choices. The only way the birth climate will ever change is if women refuse to allow it to remain as it is.......practitioner oriented. Women must demand that their needs be of the utmost importance, rather than the needs of the insurance company or a malpractice policy. I believe that this day is coming. I hope it is soon.
