Designer Linda Huang shares why it was important for her to choose an Asian-American doula
As a Chinese woman and first time mother, I wanted to find a doula who would understand the intricacies of my culture, with whom I could communicate with ease in times of duress, and who has first-hand experience with having an Asian body. I was concerned that I wouldn’t be able to find a doula who could understand my needs, physically and psychologically, during this vulnerable period.
Janel was an absolute godsend, going above and beyond to ensure that my husband and I were equipped with up-to-date research to make the right decisions at critical junctures. Aside from her warmth, generosity, and compassion as a doula, her enriching information sessions ultimately led me to achieve a low-intervention vaginal delivery on May 6, 2022.
“It is critical to ensure that the people providing birth care reflect the diversity of expecting mothers. As a minority, a non-American, and someone who can be somewhat neurotic during challenging times, hiring Janel was the best decision we made during my pregnancy. As an Asian-American birth worker—and more importantly—as an outstanding human being who is dedicated to providing care to people of color...”
Janel met with us six times. These sessions ranged from childbirth education to breastfeeding and infant CPR, covering every topic I could hope for with evidence-based research. I was impressed with her breadth of knowledge and unflappable demeanor. She delivered detailed but simple-to-digest information packets for each session. The one we referred to many times was Common Labor Interventions and Evidence for their Use in a Hospital Setting, illustrating that many interventions are ultimately unnecessary or lead to further interventions, resulting in unwanted C-Sections. My friends all remarked on how well-prepared we seemed to be.
When I thought my water was slowly breaking around 10 days before my due date, Janel immediately sent us an article on your website regarding PROM, and we learned that the “24-hour clock” rule no longer applied. (Turns out it was just cervical fluid, but Janel’s astuteness and responsiveness were truly reassuring.)
On the few days leading up to birth, Janel was by my side, exuding a level of emotional intelligence, encouragement, and discernment that made me feel safe and heard. In the hospital, it was immediately clear that she was fluent in navigating the complexities in that arena during a time when I was essentially non-functional.
It is critical to ensure that the people providing birth care reflect the diversity of expecting mothers. As a minority, a non-American, and someone who can be somewhat neurotic during challenging times, hiring Janel was the best decision we made during my pregnancy. As an Asian-American birth worker—and more importantly—as an outstanding human being who is dedicated to providing care to people of color, Janel would be indispensable asset.
