This post might get a bit personal, but I felt compelled to share more about who I am, why I do this work and how I approach to it. After all, understanding the doula role, particularly in Finland, is crucial to grasping my unique approach.
My Role as Your Doula in Helsinki, Finland
Initially, I considered offering a classic definition of a doula’s role, tailored specifically to those of us in Helsinki (and Finland at large). But the more I delved into it, the more I realized the redundancy. You could easily Google a concise, up-to-date definition of a doula.
During my research, I found myself drawn to the definitions put forth by other inspiring professionals. This led me to reflect on my own perspective and craft a proposition of “what is my role as your doula”.
Expanding further, I pondered: what is my role as your doula, here and now? Here, representing my work mainly in Helsinki and Espoo, and now, as you read this (I’m jotting this down at the beginning of 2024, for your reference).
My role as your doula:
- You’re my client. I’m not employed by a hospital or midwife; you’re the star of my service.
- While I’m not a healthcare professional and won’t provide medical advice, I’ll arm you with data and evidence-based information.
- Decision-making rests with you, but I’m here to navigate the birth maze, reminding you that you’re in the driver’s seat with clear information.
- Your birth partner is ALWAYS part of the team. I’m not here to replace your loved ones but to complement their support.
- Listening precedes speaking.
- I support all types of families, embracing diversity as a fundamental aspect of humanity.
- Your level of support during pregnancy and postpartum is your call, but typically, I’m by your side from start to finish during birth. Don’t fret about me; coffee keeps me going, and I’m a pro at catnaps in uncomfortable hospital chairs.
What Kind of Things Do I Do as a Doula in Helsinki, Finland?
Sure, you can peruse my detailed services pages (birth, lactation consultancy, postpartum), but let me shed some light on what I do.
Having undergone various doula trainings, each distinct in its teachings on what doulas can/should/do within legal bounds, I’ve honed my own approach.
As your doula, I:
- Dive deep into research: studies, books, consultations with fellow doulas, midwives, and even doctors (your privacy is sacred; I won’t share any personal details).
- Collaborate with you on a birth plan and intentions, ensuring I understand your expectations and preferences.
- Offer birth preparation and education sessions, encompassing movement, meditation, breathing techniques, massage, and coping mechanisms.
- Remain reachable for your questions and needs via phone, WhatsApp, and beyond.
- Encourage your participation in supportive doula and mum-to-mum groups like Positive Birth Helsinki or Motherhood Talks.
- Provide emotional and physical support during birth, from massages to dancing, and everything in between, fostering the atmosphere you desire.
- Extend guidance and support on your breast-/chest-feeding or lactation journey.
- Offer postpartum support, whether it’s listening, birth debriefing, night shifts or lending a hand with household chores.
I prioritize the holistic well-being of your family and refrain from advocating for specific parenting choices. What matters most is that you feel empowered to bond with your baby.
She was with us all the time at the hospital, she made the communication with nurses and doctors easier and her support was key for us to stay calm. Her breathing techniques and massages helped me relieve pain. After birth she supported us with all our questions about breastfeeding and she even cooked some delicious meals which we appreciated a lot. There are not enough words to thank her for being with us during this beautiful and intense journey.
Violeta
My mission is to infuse information, light, and joy into a process often depicted as dark and arduous—a “sacrifice” of sorts.
In the Finnish birthing landscape, I believe this blend of emotional support and hands-on assistance sets my service apart. If you’re keen on experiencing this journey with me, let’s schedule a discovery call!
If you are on the quest of finding your doula in Helsinki, you maybe find useful my free-to-download: 20 questions to ask your doula