Why I Became a Postpartum Doula
One of the most common questions I get is about why I chose to become a postpartum doula, and I love explaining how I feel so fortunate to have been able to turn a passion into a job. Doula work is a second career for me, and when I was younger, I never would have imagined that I’d be doing this work. But, the beauty of life is that it takes many twists and turns, and I’m grateful for the path that led me here.
Back in college and graduate school, I studied business. I grew up as the daughter of a small business owner, and while elements of self-employment appealed to me, I didn’t initially intend to pursue that path. As an eager undergrad, I envisioned a life in corporate America. However, after spending a few years abroad – first for graduate school in the Netherlands and then a year of work for a small business in New Zealand – I started to consider other options.
I landed in higher education, which was an excellent fit. I liked being able to incorporate my business background into an environment that valued exploration, curiosity, and collaboration. Through a number of positions in academic advising, admissions, student affairs, and administration, I had the opportunity to develop varied skills and gain broad experiences. My favorite part of working in higher education was getting to know the students and working hard to make their educational experience richer.
During this time, I became a parent. I transitioned back to work after my maternity leave and experienced first-hand what that transition can feel like, both emotionally and logistically. Becoming a mom changed so many things for me, shifting my values, priorities, and goals.
Early in my second pregnancy, I decided I was ready for a major change. I left my position, hitting pause on a 12-year career in higher education. I was eager to prioritize time with my family and leaned into being the primary caregiver for my one, and then two, children. I loved this stage of life and soaked up the sweetness of being around two small beings.
However, as my younger daughter approached her first birthday, I found I was missing having some type of professional identity and outlet. I began considering what my next venture could be.
As I reflected on my own postpartum experiences, I felt that there was such a gap in support, care, and information, and I started to consider what steps I could take to fill that void for other parents. We’ve all heard the Gandhi quote about being the change you wish to see in the world. I yearned for a world in which all new parents would feel validated, informed, and uplifted. The idea of becoming a postpartum doula seemed like a concrete step I could take to, in a small way, contribute to this ideal.
And the rest is history. I pursued training to become a postpartum doula, and then completed a course and exam to add the credential of Certified Lactation Counselor. After initially working for a doula agency, I became excited about the idea of running my own business, and Robbins Doula Services, LLC was born.
As I approach the sixth anniversary of becoming a doula, I am so grateful for the experiences I’ve had, the families I’ve met, the doula community I’ve gotten to know, and the opportunity to do what I love. Having a job that doesn’t feel like a job is an incredible privilege, and I do not take this opportunity for granted.
About the Author:
Kathleen Robbins, a postpartum doula and Certified Lactation Counselor, provides in-person postpartum support to families in the St. Louis area and virtual and texting doula support to families in any location. For more information and to explore how postpartum doula support could be the right fit for your family, reach out today.
