The Delights of Being a Doula
When Courtney Edens gave birth in January of 2023, her baby was placed in the NICU, meaning she would have to pump rather than breastfeed. And despite this being her fourth child, Edens found herself struggling.
“Even being as experienced as I was, I still didn’t know everything,” Edens said. “And I wanted to know everything and then be able to teach other mothers everything they needed to know.”
This desire led Edens to spend part of her maternity leave getting certified as a lactation counselor—and a doula. Research shows that having a doula can improve maternal and infant outcomes during pregnancy by reducing stress, anxiety, and pain. Among other things, doulas like Edens help clients develop birth plans, educate them on what to expect during pregnancy, and simply serve as a shoulder to cry on.
“I tell all my clients I’m like their rented best friend,” Edens said. “I’m there to answer all of your questions, and I’m basically there for anything that they need—good, bad and ugly.”
Many West Virginians would benefit from having someone like Edens by their side during pregnancy, but, unfortunately, doula services aren’t particularly affordable or accessible in the Mountain State. Luckily, at FamilyCare, patients can access doula services for free, continuing the organization’s commitment to knocking down health care barriers. This commitment to compassionately meeting each patient’s unique needs distinguishes FamilyCare from other providers. And it’s a commitment that Edens always keeps in mind during her doula work. That’s why her favorite part of being a doula is the bond she forms with her clients.
“Giving birth is the most vulnerable thing that you can do,” Edens said. “And just knowing that I was there for somebody in that situation means a lot. Whenever a client tells you that you made their birthing experience better, that is very fulfilling for me.”
Visit the OB/GYN & Birth Center page to learn more about our gynecologic and obstetric services.