We joined in conversation with Jessica Diggs, a Los Angeles-based midwife and co-founder of the Centered doula community, who shared the top piece of advice she gives to pregnant women—and what she believes new families need most during the newborn days. For Jessica, who has helped care for countless women during their journey to motherhood, support services are a must. Read on to find out exactly what kind of support system Jessica recommends for well-rounded care for the whole family—and her practical advice for designing the perfect baby registry.
LHM
In your work as a midwife, when do you typically join a new family’s journey?
JD
Typically, I am joining families in early pregnancy. Many pregnant people move through the conventional obstetrical care for early pregnancy as that is easily accessible and familiar to them. As they clarify their ideal birth preferences, they seek care from a medical provider that aligns with those goals. Lately, I am seeing more and more people in the pre-conception phase and for well-person, gynecological care.
LHM
What are the main reasons a woman should hire a midwife?
JD
Midwifery is so much more than just birth and postpartum care. Women can see midwives for annual exams, Pap smears, sexual health, conception support and pregnancy care. Midwives offer trauma-informed care, ample time to educate and answer questions and a holistic approach to your reproductive health.
LHM
You recently launched a new community, called Centered. Tell us about it.
JD
Centered is a curated community of doulas. We know that becoming a parent is filled with lots of decisions and no clear guidance on how to make them. It’s easy to get stuck trying to find quality care for the birthing and early stages of parenthood. Our vision is to connect parents to our curated community through a space that brings together vetted doulas.
LHM
What did you experience that led you to create this type of community?
JD
I have talked to or supported so many new parents as they struggled to find a good doula. Many do not know where to start or need help articulating their family’s needs. At Centered, we are asking the clarifying questions, vetting the doulas, and supporting them as they support your family. The community extends to all.
LHM
What’s your number one piece of advice for pregnant women?
JD
Hire a doula! Get the support you deserve. Medical providers like doctors and midwives are focused on the clinical care and often inundated with lots of responsibilities. Doulas are solely focused on you, your education, and your emotional wellbeing in an invaluable way. No matter your birth place, they can provide local resources, comfort measures, and tangible tips for your partner/support person.
LHM
In your experience, what are the things new families need most in the early newborn days?
JD
Families need a lot of support in the early newborn days. Well-rounded care would include: nourishing meals, postpartum doula support, lactation support, therapeutic support for healing, and mental health support. Every family should have a doula, lactation consultant, and mental health specialist on their team in the early postpartum period. Family and friends can be amazing help but with professionals, your family get to just be your family and love up on your baby.
LHM
Do you think cost plays a factor in new families’ care and support decisions?
JD
Cost is definitely a deciding factor for support decisions. Many people would love the support but have not budgeted for the care. I’d also add that many do not prioritize care over gear. Most new parents are obsessing over all the things baby will “need” versus prioritizing the one thing that is the most important need for a newborn – a healthy, happy parent. If there was a reframe then there may be more of a focus on planning for postpartum care.
LHM
What are some ways new parents can overcome financial hesitations when it comes to their wellness and family support?
JD
With intention, parents can ask their community to send services—or cash for services—in lieu of baby gear. Remind your community that they are supporting a new family, versus just buying for a new baby. Lastly, if you are planning to conceive, include wellness and postpartum care in your “baby budget”.
LHM
What advice do you have for expectant mothers, with regard to planning their baby registries?
JD
Try to take a minimalist approach to baby gear by collecting only 10-12 necessary items and rotating age-appropriate clothing. Really limit the amount of new pieces you buy, get secondhand toys and clothes, and purchase age appropriate needs and gear that grows with your child.
Reminder that you can add Jessica’s recommended support services to your Little Honey Money registry. Let your loved ones give you the gift of expert wisdom and community support—it just might be the most memorable gift you receive.
