Why Winnipeg & Steinbach Parents Should Consider Hiring a Doula: Insights from a Local Doula

I see you, soon-to-be-mama! You’ve just found out you’re pregnant and maybe you're trying to keep busy while your husband gets home from work and you can tell him of this very exciting news. Or maybe you’re already halfway through and beginning to feel anxious about the upcoming birth. I have been there, nervous and overwhelmed with the many choices and opinions of others perhaps. As a fellow mom and Winnipeg maternity photographer, I know first hand and have talked to dozens of expecting moms on how important it is to find the right help. I recently had the honor to chat with Olga, a Winnipeg and Steinbach doula who supported me during my own birth experience. I’m sharing our conversation in hopes it gives you a peace of mind and maybe even helps you feel a little more prepared as you get ready to welcome your little. (spoiler alert, i truly couldn't have done it without her) So, grab a cup of tea, get comfy, and let’s dive into how having a doula in your corner can make all the difference.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what inspired you to become a doula?

From a young age, I’ve been very interested in the medical field. In my early adulthood, I had the privilege of working in healthcare and eventually becoming a doula in Steinbach and Winnipeg. I am passionate about supporting families through one of the most important times in their lives. With a compassionate heart and dedication to my work, I feel truly honored and humbled each time I am chosen to be someone’s doula. It’s a privilege to help guide and support manitoba families through the birth experience.

What kind of training and certification do you have?

I completed my doula training in 2014 through the respected non-profit organization, MACFEe. Since then, I have added years of hands-on experience in a variety of birth settings and situations, allowing me to adapt and provide personalized care to each family I work with

What exactly does a doula do, and how can they support families during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum?

I recognize birth as a key life experience, that the mother will remember all her life. I as your doula understand the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of a women in labor. I assist you and your partner in preparation for and carrying out your plans for your birth. I stay by your side throughout the entire labor. I provide emotional support, physical comfort measures, an objective viewpoint and assistance to the women and information she needs to make good and informed decisions. I also advocate for your wishes, communicating with midwives and doctors to ensure your preferences are understood and respected.

What Are the Key Benefits of Hiring a Doula?

Choosing a doula you feel connected to and trust is so important during one of the most intense and vulnerable times of your life. A doula provides personalized support, ensuring you feel confident, cared for, and understood throughout your journey.

What do I look for when choosing a Winnipeg or Steinbach doula?

Choose someone that doesn’t judge your birth plan and supports your choices. Someone that has a passion for being a doula will be seen and felt immediately. It is very important that the you and your partner are comfortable with the Doula. If you decide after the meet up that you and the doula are not compatible, I encourage you to voice that and look for someone that you feel may be a fetter fit.

How does having a doula present impact the birth experience for both the mother and the family?

Studies have shown (and from my own personal experience as a Winnipeg and Steinbach doula) when you have a support person at your side, the risk for c-sections and other interventions decrease.

What types of support do you offer to moms during pregnancy?

I meet with the couple prior to birth to talk about their birth plan. I educate the couple on what to expect during labour, birth and postpartum. If the couple feels like they need more visits I make sure to be there for them.

Tips for Expectant Mothers to Prepare for Labor and Delivery

Listen to your own body. Every woman’s body is unique, so it’s important to listen to yours and find what works best for you. What may be right for one woman might not be the right fit for you.

One tip I often recommend is practicing perineal stretching during the third trimester. This technique can help reduce the risk of tearing and support a smoother dilation process, making labor more efficient and comfortable. Always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure this practice is right for you.

How Do You Work with Healthcare Providers During the Birthing Process?

Communication is key when working alongside midwives and obstetricians. Since I have been a doula in Steinbach for many years, I’ve built strong relationships with many local healthcare providers. This familiarity allows us to work together seamlessly, ensuring your birth preferences are respected and creating a supportive, stress-free environment for you and your family.

What types of support do you provide to families during the postpartum period?

During the postpartum period it is very important for me to take some time to debrief with the couple. It is important to me that the mom is reaching her breastfeeding journey expectation and that she is healing emotionally and physically.

How Do You Support Families Who Face Language Barriers During Birth?

My ability to speak several languages has been incredibly valuable in supporting families who face language barriers. When a family doesn’t speak English, I can provide clear guidance and emotional support in their preferred language, helping them feel understood and cared for throughout their birth journey. This ensures they don’t feel isolated or overwhelmed and can fully engage in their birth experience.

Are there any questions you recommend families ask during doula interview?

It is important to meet before labour to become aquaintat, to explore and discuss your priorities and any fear or concerns, and plan how we might best work together. During the prenatal meeting, I will review your preferences for labour and birth. I will ask about your knowledge of the birth process, your own personal ways of coping with pain, fatigue and difficult situations, what your expectations are of your partner and myself. We can discuss any fears and concerns you have regarding labour and birth. My goal is to help you have a satisfying birth as you define it. The more ways we explore in advance, the better I will be able to fulfil this role. All information you give me I keep strictly confidential. It is not my place to- and I will not- judge or question your choices.

I hope this blog post has been helpful in shedding light on the amazing work that doulas do. Whether you’re considering hiring a doula for your own journey or just curious, I truly believe the support they provide is invaluable.

As someone who personally experienced the difference a doula can make, I can tell you that having Olga by my side during the birth of my first child was truly irreplaceable. Her expertise, warmth, and calm presence gave me the confidence and support I needed, and I wouldn’t want to go through another birth without her.

If you’d like to learn more about her services or reach out for support during your pregnancy or birth, you can contact Olga directly at:

olchik90@hotmail.com

https://oworonzow.wixsite.com/doula

Wishing you a peaceful and joyful journey ahead as you prepare for your little one!