Building a Supportive Network in the Birth World

As doulas, we often focus on the intimate connections we form with our clients. But there’s another vital relationship that can dramatically impact our success and satisfaction in this work: our connection to the broader birth community. Welcome to the third river in our Seven Rivers approach: the Community Current.

The Power of Community in Doula Work

In a profession that can sometimes feel isolating, a strong community offers numerous benefits:

1. Emotional support: Birth work can be emotionally intense. Having peers who understand can provide much-needed support and prevent burnout.
2. Knowledge sharing: No one doula can know everything. A diverse community allows for the exchange of ideas, techniques, and resources.
3. Referral network: When you’re part of a strong community, you’re more likely to receive (and give) client referrals.
4. Collaborative opportunities: Community connections can lead to joint ventures, from hosting workshops to writing books.

Overcoming Isolation as a Self-Employed Professional

Many doulas, especially those just starting out, find themselves feeling isolated. Here are some strategies to combat this:

1. Join professional organizations: Groups like DONA International or CAPPA offer networking opportunities and resources.
2. Attend local meetups: Look for doula circles or birth professional gatherings in your area.
3. Participate in online forums: Facebook groups and platforms like DoulaMatch.net can help you connect with peers globally.
4. Seek out a mentor: Having a more experienced doula to guide you can be invaluable.

Remember, building community takes time and effort, but the rewards are well worth it.

Networking Strategies for Doulas

Networking doesn’t have to be awkward or forced. Here are some natural ways to build connections:

1. Attend birth-related events: Conferences, workshops, and local birth fairs are great places to meet colleagues.
2. Volunteer: Offering your time to local maternal health initiatives can help you meet like-minded professionals.
3. Host your own events: Consider organizing a monthly doula coffee meet-up or a book club focused on birth-related literature.
4. Engage on social media: Share your insights, comment on others’ posts, and participate in Twitter chats or Instagram Lives related to birth work.

For the Introverts

If large gatherings feel overwhelming, start small:

• Set a goal to have coffee with one new birth professional each month.
• Engage in online discussions before meeting people in person.
• Volunteer to help organize events – it gives you a structured role and natural conversation starters.

Building Relationships with Care Providers

Positive relationships with other care providers can greatly enhance your practice:

1. Reach out to local hospitals and birth centers: Offer to give a presentation about doula support or ask if you can tour their facilities.
2. Connect with OB-GYNs and midwives: Send a professional introduction email or leave your card at their offices.
3. Attend interdisciplinary events: Look for conferences or workshops that bring together various birth professionals.
4. Be a stellar professional: The best way to build good relationships is to be reliable, respectful, and collaborative in your work.

Remember, these relationships are about mutual respect and understanding. Your goal is to work together to provide the best possible care for birthing families.

Engaging with Online Doula Communities

In our digital age, online communities can be just as valuable as in-person ones:

1. Join Facebook groups: There are groups for nearly every doula niche and interest.
2. Participate in webinars: Many organizations host online events that include networking opportunities.
3. Engage on Instagram: Follow and interact with other doulas, birth photographers, and maternal health advocates.
4. Contribute to forums: Platforms like Reddit have active birth professional communities.

When engaging online, always maintain professionalism and respect client confidentiality.

Collaborating with Fellow Birth Workers

Collaboration can take many forms:

1. Backup doula networks: Form a small group of trusted colleagues who can support each other’s clients if needed.
2. Joint workshops: Partner with a childbirth educator or lactation consultant to offer comprehensive classes.
3. Skill shares: Organize events where doulas can teach each other their unique skills or techniques.
4. Collaborative blog or podcast: Create content together to share your collective knowledge with a broader audience.

Nurturing Your Community Current

Building a strong community is an ongoing process. Here are some tips to keep your Community Current flowing:

1. Give as much as you take: Offer support, share resources, and celebrate others’ successes.
2. Stay open-minded: Be willing to learn from those with different perspectives or approaches.
3. Maintain boundaries: While community is important, make sure to balance it with your client work and personal life.
4. Address conflicts professionally: In any community, disagreements can arise. Handle them with grace and professionalism.

Remember, a rising tide lifts all boats. When we support each other, we elevate the entire profession of doula work.

Ready to dive deeper into your Community Current? Join our monthly virtual “Doula Tea Time” where we discuss challenges, share successes, and build connections with fellow birth workers. [Sign up here!]

How do you build and maintain your birth work community? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!