Birth doula

Offering holistic prenatal, labour and postpartum support in Amsterdam

A doula holds space. Space for you to find balance and wellbeing in birth. Her support is continuous, safe, non-judgemental and absolutely tailored to your needs.

“ A trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to their client before, during and shortly after childbirth to help them achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible” DONA International

Birth and the transition to parenthood are one of life’s greatest rites of passage. Zephyr Doula offers emotional, physical and spiritual support to guide you through.

As doulas, we know that the birthing person does ALL the hard work, and a support system can be vital and empowering. A doula takes the time to get to know you during your pregnancy. She knows what you do when you are in pain, she knows the signs when you need help or reassurance, she is the face you turn to when you are overwhelmed by the sensations of birth. She knows what is going on in your body during labour, and can support you as you surf the waves of birth.

“Continuous support in labor may improve a number of outcomes for both (the birthing person) and baby, and no adverse outcomes have been identified. Continuous support from a person who is present solely to provide support, is not a member of the (person’s) own network, is experienced in providing labor support, and has at least a modest amount of training (such as a doula), appears beneficial”

For centuries, women have supported other women in labour. A doula provides additional care and support, during prenatal appointments and the labour itself. We guide the partner in providing whatever the birthing person needs. No matter what twists and turns labour takes, whether at home or in the hospital, women who are supported with continuous care during labour are more likely to report a positive experience overall.

The path to parenthood is often paved by ancestral and community stories: birth stories told by the women before us, our friends and our own subconscious beliefs are moulded this way. How many stories have we been told about birth: the pain, the duration, the fear, the ease, the beauty, the horror? It is hard to walk lightly on this path without taking on the stories of others. A doula helps to support you in your story, releasing those of others.

Whether you are looking for a doula, Shaman or blend of both, I offer holistic care during pregnancy, childbirth and beyond. A deep, personal, connection and bespoke practices that help you to thrive and find wellness in this life changing time.

Doulas remind us that birth is not only about making babies. It’s about making mothers. Strong, competent, capable mothers who trust themselves and believe in their inner strength

~ Barbara Katz Rothman