When I started this work, the very first thing I was told was to pack a doula bag. It was explained to me that I was going to need all kinds of "things" to bring with me to a birth. Soon, my bag was literally bursting at the seams! It was heavy and what I didn't know at the time was that it was unnecessary. Here's what happened. As an inexperienced doula, I wanted to be prepared for anything but there was also the feeling that I just wasn't good enough on my own...that I needed to bring extras to prove how valuable I was. I wasn't confident and I didn't value myself or the knowledge that I had.
My bag got so full that it was impossible to sift through and the weight of this bag was causing strain on my patience, confidence, and shoulders! I can't tell you how embarrassed I was when I had a woman ask if I had a hair tie and I had to DUMP MY BAG on the couch to find them! I was mortified! It was in that moment I realized that I needed to downsize! On the way home that night, I thought about why I felt like I "needed" all of those things in my bag. Was I trying to prove my value to my clients? Did I not value the skills that I had all on my own? I didn't need all of the extra stuff to prove my worth. I just had to start believing it. As soon as I showered and napped, a doula bag overhaul took place.
Here is a list of things I took out of my bag:
My bag got so full that it was impossible to sift through and the weight of this bag was causing strain on my patience, confidence, and shoulders! I can't tell you how embarrassed I was when I had a woman ask if I had a hair tie and I had to DUMP MY BAG on the couch to find them! I was mortified! It was in that moment I realized that I needed to downsize! On the way home that night, I thought about why I felt like I "needed" all of those things in my bag. Was I trying to prove my value to my clients? Did I not value the skills that I had all on my own? I didn't need all of the extra stuff to prove my worth. I just had to start believing it. As soon as I showered and napped, a doula bag overhaul took place.
Here is a list of things I took out of my bag:
Toiletries (for clients) - While having travel size personal care items for clients is nice, it simply isn't needed. Most, if not all, people who are prepping their birth bags understand they need to pack shampoo, body soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc., so me bringing them "just in case" was a waste of space.
Extra Snacks - Protein bars, granola, jerky...partners often forget to care for themselves because they are caring for the mother so I thought these would be important. I quickly realized that most people bring their own food and even if they didn't, there was no way to tell if they were going to be able to eat my snacks. Bring snacks for yourself but leave the rest at home.
Sweater - I don't bring my sweater anymore and here's why. First, I get HOT in birth rooms. Laboring women typically like the birth room warmer, so I found I wasn't using my sweater. Also, I found if I got cold or needed a cover, I reached for my Rebozo instead.
Drinks for Mom and partner - I used to bring coconut water for clients but found that they often had their own drinks or they preferred water. Not to mention...these got HEAVY! This was an easy cut to make. I remind my clients to bring any electrolyte drinks or coconut water they may want in their hospital bags.
Extra Snacks - Protein bars, granola, jerky...partners often forget to care for themselves because they are caring for the mother so I thought these would be important. I quickly realized that most people bring their own food and even if they didn't, there was no way to tell if they were going to be able to eat my snacks. Bring snacks for yourself but leave the rest at home.
Sweater - I don't bring my sweater anymore and here's why. First, I get HOT in birth rooms. Laboring women typically like the birth room warmer, so I found I wasn't using my sweater. Also, I found if I got cold or needed a cover, I reached for my Rebozo instead.
Drinks for Mom and partner - I used to bring coconut water for clients but found that they often had their own drinks or they preferred water. Not to mention...these got HEAVY! This was an easy cut to make. I remind my clients to bring any electrolyte drinks or coconut water they may want in their hospital bags.
Here are the things I DO have in my bag.
Every doula's needs and preferences are different, these are the things I like to have on hand. Sometimes I use all of them, sometimes none. Also, you'll notice that most of the things are not for the client's, they're for me!
Every doula's needs and preferences are different, these are the things I like to have on hand. Sometimes I use all of them, sometimes none. Also, you'll notice that most of the things are not for the client's, they're for me!
 | Badge - I don't always wear it, but I always have it with me. I've found that it puts doctors and nurses at ease that they can easily identify who I am. To be able to easily see my full name, title, and certifying organization, they know that I am professional and accountable for my actions. I'm excited because I will be adding my picture to my badge soon. |
 | Client Folder and Clipboard - I never forget to bring a folder containing my client's birth preferences as well as the paperwork that I fill out during and after a birth. Often times, the tables are being used and there is no hard surface for me to write on when taking notes so I always bring my clipboard. |
 | Rebozo - This is a traditional Mexican shawl, long enough to wrap around a the client's body (about 4-5 feet). It is a tool to assist the mother into various positions and help with relaxation. Think of it as an extension of the labor partner / doula's arms, helping to support the mother's weight. It also helps to ensure the mother is in the right position. I also use it as a shawl if I'm cold or as a blanket if I get a chance to nap! |
 | Personal Bag - Usually I'm with clients from the time they call me to their birth until about 2-3 hours after their baby has been born. In instances when the family asks for alone time or if I find myself needing to be separated from my doula bag, I grab this pack. It has coins for machines, my badge (if I'm not wearing it), wallet, phone, charger, toiletries, etc.. This bag is about the size of a small purse so it is easy to grab and go! |
 | Change of Clothes and Garbage Bag - I'll let you in on a little secret...birth is messy! You would'nt believe how many times I've had to change my clothes because I've been splashed or soiled from amniotic fluid, blood, fecal matter, urine, vomit, etc.. Having a complete change of clothes is SO important! Also, I have found that it's just as important to bring a garbage bag so you have a place to put your soiled clothes. |
 | Snacks - Birth can sometimes last a long time and doula's never really know when they are going to get to eat so I always pack some energy bars. I take quick bites when clients are in the bathroom, on my walk to the restroom, etc.. These give me just enough energy to power through to my next meal. |
 | Garden Kneeler - Lightweight, durable, and waterproof, this pad is a lifesaver! It has cushioned the knees of clients laboring in showers, as well as doulas and partners who are stuck in less than desirable positions while supporting the mother. I don't know what I would do without this kneeler and I never leave home without it. |
 | Heating Packs - I used to bring a rice sock to births but I found that unless I had access to a microwave, I was not getting it heated as frequently as my client's needed. These are reusable heating packs. To recharge and sanitize, they are dropped in boiling water. When ready to use, a coin is "snapped" inside the liquid, creating instant and lasting heat! These are excellent for back labor as well as soothing aches and pains. |
 | Honey Sticks - I bring honey sticks with me for two reasons. A quick boost of honey gives me energy if I don't have time to eat one of the snacks that I've brought with me and it's also a nice treat for those clients that don't really want to eat but could use some energy! Small and lightweight, these are a must-have for me! |
 | Electric Candles - I love these candles. I find that they get the most use when client's are laboring in the bathroom. Women labor more effectively when they are in a dark, warm and safe. So adding these small candles creates a soothing atmosphere with just enough soft lighting to be able to see and move around safely. |
 | Tennis Ball - There is one labor tool that seems to have stood the test of time...the tennis ball. There are several different things that can be done with a tennis ball during labor. It can be used as a massage tool for the client, her partner, and even the doula (if she has a break and has aches and pains)! It can be used to add more pressure when hands just aren't cutting it, and I've seen it also used as a ritual for coping with contractions. |
As you can tell, there are several things that a doula might have in her bag and it seems to be a constant work in progress! It's important to say, however, that these are NOT the most important tools that a doula brings with her to births. There are three more things that every doula brings with her...
1. Her Head - A doula carries with her a wealth of information that can be useful to you at your birth. She's read countless books and studies, she's spent hours in trainings and continuing education, all so that she can comfort and guide you during your baby's birth.
2. Her Hands - A doula's hands have brushed back the hair of a long laboring mother, wiped the sweat from her brow, and massaged aching shoulders, hands, and feet. Her hands have spent hours applying counter pressure to countless lower backs and hips while simultaneously ignoring her own aches and pains. Her hands have gently held new babies, welcoming them into the world.
3. Her Heart - A doula's heart...it's one of love and compassion. A doula's heart is filled pride and joy watching her clients welcome their baby earth side. Her heart is filled with the kind words that she uses to empower her clients "You are doing it!" A doula's heart is filled with the memories of each family that she has served, for all have taken up residence there. A doula's heart is her most powerful tool.
2. Her Hands - A doula's hands have brushed back the hair of a long laboring mother, wiped the sweat from her brow, and massaged aching shoulders, hands, and feet. Her hands have spent hours applying counter pressure to countless lower backs and hips while simultaneously ignoring her own aches and pains. Her hands have gently held new babies, welcoming them into the world.
3. Her Heart - A doula's heart...it's one of love and compassion. A doula's heart is filled pride and joy watching her clients welcome their baby earth side. Her heart is filled with the kind words that she uses to empower her clients "You are doing it!" A doula's heart is filled with the memories of each family that she has served, for all have taken up residence there. A doula's heart is her most powerful tool.
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