Why We Do What We Do - Kelsey Herkert

Well, it's March. Or rather it's halfway through March, and Spring is around the corner. Who else is ready for the reason of rebirth? I know we all are. Speaking of birth :) Today we have the Kelsey Herkert edition of Why We Do What We Do. A newer doula on the roster, she is the light in the room and a delight to be around. What made her decide to walk the path of the birth worker? Well sit down with your cozy beverage, a bowl of puffcorn to snack on, and let's meet her. The million dollar question. What inspired you to become a doula?

K: "My own two births, with my first being the complete opposite of what I had expected, mainly due to being uneducated about birth. I want to be able to help families not feel the way I did."

What's your favorite part of supporting families during birth or postpartum?

K: "My favorite part is watching how transformative it is to bring life into the world!"

Describe your doula philosophy in one sentence.

K: "I believe birth is a natural thing and our bodies are made to know when, where, and how to birth, but I also respect medical intervention when needed to help both mom and baby."

What's one thing you wish every birthing person knew?

K: "You have so many options when it comes to pregnancy and birth! Do your research before making a decision!"

Share a powerful or memorable moment you've experienced while working as a doula.

K: "The last mom I supported labored and birthed amazingly without an epidural, when it came time to push things got a little bit tricky, I could see her mind shift from “I can’t do this” to “I have to do this” to “I did it!” And then saying many times “I couldn’t have done it without you!”

What makes your support unique?

K: "I think what makes my support unique is the fact that I have had both a traumatic birth and a very good birth. All due to being able to educate myself after my first birth to know what should actually be happening and how to prepare my mind and body the second time around."

What's one go-to comfort item or technique you always bring with you?

K: "A tens machine!!!!"

Author's note: TENS = Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. A TENS machine is a portable, noninvasive device that uses low-voltage electrical currents delivered through skin-attached electrodes to relieve acute and chronic pain

What's one myth about doulas specifically that you'd love to bust?

K: "That doulas are only for wealthy families!"

In one word, what does being a doula mean to you?

K: "Support."

Support. It's a simple word, but it holds so much of what being a doula is about. Showing up, offering guidance, and making sure no one has to navigate pregnancy, labor or postpartum alone. And to make the service a little more accessible, she's actually currently offering a special rate on her doula services for a limited time. So if you've ben thinking about having extra support during your birth journey, this could be the perfect time to connect.

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