Doulas of the Roundtable

As doulas, when it comes to communication, what we say and how it’s heard are not always the same. Words shape how clients feel, respond, and make decisions. Asking questions that begin with "why" can unintentionally sound like judgment, even when your intent is neutral or supportive. Doulas often believe that it’s our job to make sure clients are making informed choices. In truth, our responsibility is to our clients, not for them. It is not our role or responsibility to decide what a client wants or needs to know. But doulas often offer information without asking what the client wants to know or inquiring in a non-judgmental way how they came to a decision, especially surrounding topics like induction or elective cesareans. This episode unpacks the critical difference between what we mean and how our words are interpreted. If you want to strengthen your communication, reduce misunderstandings, and support clients with more clarity and compassion.

Telemetry monitoring during labor is becoming more common in hospital birth settings. Yet many doulas may not be familiar with how it works or how it differs from traditional continuous electronic fetal monitoring.   In this episode, we explore telemetry monitoring, how it functions, and the potential benefits it offers for mobility and comfort for laboring clients. We also discuss hospital policies, common limitations, and how to support clients in understanding their options when telemetry is available or when it is not.   As doulas, having a working knowledge of telemetry can help us better advocate for client preferences, support informed decision-making, and provide more effective physical and emotional support during labor.   Join us for a practical and informative conversation to help you feel more confident navigating this type of monitoring in your birth support work.

Low amniotic fluid, or oligohydramnios, is a topic doulas are likely to encounter in our work with clients, especially during the third trimester. Doulas and clients often question what low fluid levels mean, how they are diagnosed, and the clinical considerations involved. It is important for doulas to understand risks associated with low amniotic fluid, potential causes, and the treatment options care providers may offer. We also discuss how this diagnosis can influence birth plans and what doulas should keep in mind when supporting clients through these decisions. Tune in for an in-depth conversation designed to strengthen your knowledge and help you better support clients navigating this complicated situation.

We’re talking about business evolution: how growth, learning, and new services shape the future of your brand. Your doula business won’t look the same in a year or two as it did on day one. But that’s a good thing! Your marketing should reflect every step forward, from your first client to expanding your services. Updating your website, social media, and printed materials is essential as your business evolves. A brand refresh, whether that’s a new logo, a change in business name, updated colors, or a shift in messaging, is also likely as you grow. Tune in for real-world insight on aligning your image with your current position so potential clients see the full value of all you have to offer.

Many birth workers assume teaching childbirth education is just for labor doulas. Yet postpartum doulas can benefit just as much from teaching childbirth and newborn-related classes. Offering newborn care education can be a game-changer for postpartum doulas looking to grow their client base. Teaching a newborn care class allows you to connect with expecting families before their baby arrives, demonstrate your expertise, and build trust early on. You’ll help potential clients understand what postpartum doula support looks like and why it’s so valuable in those early weeks. In this episode, we explore the importance of an informative and engaging class that encourages families to seek continued support. Tune in to discover how education can be a strategic and impactful way to build your postpartum doula business.