What is a doula?
A doula is a trained birth companion who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to families during pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period. Unlike midwives or doctors who focus on medical care, doulas focus entirely on you - offering comfort measures, advocacy, and reassurance throughout your journey. The word "doula" comes from ancient Greek meaning "woman who serves," and that's exactly what we do - we serve families during one of life's most transformative experiences.

Why should I hire a doula for my birth in Kent?
Research shows that having a doula reduces the likelihood of caesarean birth, shortens labour, and increases satisfaction with the birth experience. But beyond the statistics, a doula offers you continuous support that busy NHS staff in Kent hospitals simply can't provide due to their clinical responsibilities. I'm there purely for you to help you feel calm, confident, and supported, whether you're birthing at home or at any of Kent's hospitals or Midwife Led Units.

When should I book a doula in Kent?
The ideal time to book your doula is between 20-32 weeks of pregnancy. This gives us plenty of time to build our relationship through antenatal sessions and for you to feel completely comfortable with me before your birth. However, it's never too late I've supported families who contacted me at 38 weeks or even during early labour! For postnatal doula support, many Kent families book during pregnancy, but you can also reach out after baby arrives.

How do I choose the right doula in Kent?
The most important factor is finding someone you connect with and trust. When you're researching doulas in Kent, look for someone who's properly trained, and whose approach aligns with your values. I always offer a free initial call where we can chat about your hopes, concerns, and whether we're a good fit. Ask about experience, training, backup arrangements, and how they work with your local NHS maternity services. But listen to your gut, do you want this person in your space, it’s such a beautiful relationship, so it needs to be right.

What's the difference between a doula and a midwife?
Midwives are healthcare professionals who provide medical care during pregnancy, birth, and postnatally. They monitor you and baby's health, handle any medical situations and are trained in life saving procedures. Doulas provide emotional and physical support, we're not medical professionals and don't perform clinical tasks. A Doula offers deep and nurturing support working alongside your NHS midwives in Kent.

Do I need a doula if I'm having my baby in a Kent hospital?
Absolutely! Hospital births can actually be where doula support is most valuable. Kent's NHS maternity staff often care for multiple families and have clinical duties, they are busy! As your doula, I stay with you throughout your entire labour, providing the continuous support and advocacy that can make all the difference to your birth experience.

Do you support all family types and dynamics in Kent?
Absolutely! I'm passionate about supporting all families. I use inclusive language because I believe everyone deserves respectful, affirming support during their birth and parenting journey. I've completed extensive cultural safety and LGBTQIA+ inclusivity training, and I work to create a safe, judgment-free space for every Kent family I support.

What qualifications do you have as a doula in Kent?
I'm a qualified birth and postnatal doula, and I'm also the founder of The Perinatal Academy, which provides FEDANT-accredited antenatal doula training across the UK. You can see my qualifications and training here Most importantly, I have real-world experience supporting Kent families through their births and early parenting journeys.

How do I know if I need a doula in Kent?
If you're feeling anxious about birth, want continuous support during labour, are concerned about your birth partner feeling overwhelmed, or simply want someone experienced by your side, a doula could be perfect for you. For postnatal support, if you're worried about those early weeks, want help establishing feeding, or need practical support while you recover, postnatal doula care can be invaluable.

What if I'm new to the Kent area and don't know local services? Perfect! As your local doula, I can be your guide to Kent's family services. I know the best baby groups, breastfeeding support, children's centres, soft play areas, and family-friendly activities across the region. I can help you build connections in your new community and find the support networks that will serve you long after our time together ends.

What's the best way to contact you about doula support in Kent?
The quickest way is WhatsApp on 07880368104

You can also email me at hello@samthedoula.co.uk I offer free initial consultations where we can chat about your needs, my services, and whether