Why We Do What We Doula: Courtney Allen

July is about two-thirds over but we are finally back again with another installment of "Why we do what we do." This time we have Courtney Allen. Sit back with your iced coffee, take a break and have a read. Whether you're looking for a doula or you are a doula, we hope you enjoy the read.

How long have you been a doula?

C: "4.5 years"

What other certifications do you hold?

C: CPR, First Aid, NRP

What did you do before becoming a doula?

C: "Stay-at-home mom and taught children's/mommy and me fitness classes."

How did you first hear about the profession?

C: "Through my own pregnancies."

Do you have any children?

C: "3 earthlings and 3 angel babies"

What is a moment during one of your births that looking back you think "a doula would have saved me a lot of time?"

C: "My 2nd baby was OP (Sunny side up) I did not have a doula, and someone to help me get him into a better position would have been very helpful!!! We also had just moved to an island 4 weeks pp and I had no friends, knew no one and my husband at the time was working over nights!! A post partum doula would have removed a lot of stress and allowed me to rest."

What are some challenges you've faced since becoming a doula?

C: "Does finding childcare count?" (-we say yes, yes it does.)

What's your go-to tip for surviving the first week as a new parent?

C: "Stay in bed! Rest, eat, snuggle your baby."

What's one thing you want every family to feel or experience during postpartum?

C: "[being] nurtured and empowered!!"

And lastly, birth and babies can take up a lot of time. What are some of your outside-work hobbies?

C: "Gym, reading, being outside when it's warm, diamond art, plants, and the moon/astrology!"

A woman of many interests! Tune in with us next month. For realsies this time.