Our editor joined in conversation with Anissa Cornelius, Doula and founder of Little Star Birth Services in San Diego, California. Anissa, who believes it’s ‘never too late to hire a doula’, shares her practical advice for hiring support people during the pandemic. You may be surprised to learn that, now, during a time of isolation, birth support is actually more available than ever before—but not nearly as accessible as it should be for all women. Anissa explains why doula support should not be considered a luxury.
LHM
What motivated you to pursue work in supporting birthing people?
AC
I had amazing support from a midwife and doula for my first pregnancy. That journey was wildly different from how I imagined it would be, but along the way I felt supported, empowered, and heard—and it made a huge difference in my life as a new mom. It was hard for me to believe that every birthing person did not have the same support available to them, so it really made me want to do the same thing for other families.
LHM
At what point is a doula’s support most useful for a pregnant woman?
AC
It is never too late to hire a doula during your pregnancy. I’ve been hired when woman was as late as 38 weeks pregnant. But, if you’re planning ahead, hiring a doula to start when you’re around 16-18 weeks pregnant is great timing. You’ll have more time to ask questions and establish a relationship with your doula. I recommend interviewing at least three doulas, which you can do via phone or Zoom these days. Trust your instincts about who would be a good fit for your birth team.
LHM
Is adequate pregnancy and postpartum support available today?
AC
One positive in the midst of this pandemic, is that people have been seeking more professional support, and are surprised to find it even more accessible than before. Many birth workers have been working continuously to make support available to new parents during this chaotic time. It looks a little different than traditional support, but virtual support has many pros—including not having support limited by geographic location. I hope new families are feeling supported more often than not during this global pandemic.
LHM
What advice can you offer families, to feel comfortable having additional support people present during the pandemic?
AC
Rest assured that your birth workers are doing all they can to stay safe and keep you safe as well. PPE, hand washing, temperature-taking, and mask-wearing are all part of the new protocols. Also remember that you have options. Virtual support is so valuable and has different benefits than in-person support. Most birth workers will honor your wishes when it comes to safety precautions or assist you in finding a good fit.
LHM
What can women do on their own, to prepare for birth?
AC
Take a class. Now more than ever it feels important that new mothers take a birth class. It will help you feel more confident in your birth and in parenting. Utilize the time you have to hear positive stories. And most importantly — make a postpartum support plan. So many people know to make a birth plan, but few remember to figure who is going to be the best help after the baby arrives.
LHM
What can mothers do on their own, to heal after birth?
AC
It’s so important for new moms to actually rest and take it easy. Learn about the “fourth trimester” and enjoy snuggling your new baby. Ask for help — and actually accept it! You never get that time back, so it’s really important to let your body heal, eat nourishing foods, and stay hydrated. Your body will thank you later.
LHM
How can partners best offer their support during this time?
AC
Awareness is key. Noticing what the birthing person needs, and making sure they are not jumping back into household chores too quickly is so important. Calling additional people in to help when needed is crucial. I also like to remind partners to find their own special way to bond with a new baby. Reading to baby, singing songs, baby wearing — these are all ways that can be great support. Do them while new mom takes a bath and encourage her to find extra time for herself. And, of course, hiring a doula will give you both the guidance you need.
LHM
What can society do about the disparities in motherhood support for Black women?
AC
Listening to Black birth workers is a great start. Reading books on reproductive justice is also a good way to learn. Also, promoting midwifery care, doula support, and breastfeeding can help make the maternal outcomes of the Black community improve drastically. And, trust Black women when they tell you that they were treated differently. Donate to BIPOC birth workers and have conversations with people about why this is important. We are at a great place in history to be on the positive side of justice.
LHM
Is there a way that doula support can be made more accessible to all women?
AC
We have to rid ourselves of the notion that doula support is a luxury—then we can find creative ways for all women to have a doula. I’ve known people to ask that, instead of presents for baby, people contribute to their doula fund. Having garage sales, budgeting, sliding scales are other ways to find extra money to hire a doula. We have to normalize doula support and make sure that doulas get paid what they are worth. Insurance can be an option at times, but unfortunately, more often than not, it fails to pay a doula’s livable wage. Birth work is essential work, so it’s important that we make sure doulas get compensated for all the love and care they put into supporting new families.
