About Us

We are a membership based group of trained doulas in the West Kootenay's. The Kootenay Doula Group was formed in 2000 by a small group of passionate women beginning their journey to become doulas. These doulas gathered together to support one another, share birth stories and collaborate on ways to bring their knowledge, empathy and support to our community. At that time, they worked towards recognition as a profession within the medical milieu. Since conception, The Kootenay Doula Group has grown significantly in membership, enjoying an enriching circle of doulas with a variety of experiences. Doulas in our community are valued and respected members of the care providers team at home and in the hospital.

​Each doula in our group has their own individual practise. As you read the biographies you will discover a diverse range of education, life skills and unique passions that give you options in finding a great match. All members have formal training as a Doula and utilize this, coupled with their experiences from related fields which provide a collective continum of support. 

What is a doula?

Doulas can be an invaluable member of your birthing team.

A doula is a trusted person that journey's with you through your pregnancy. When the time comes to birth a doula is a familiar presence who will offer continuous support during labour and birth as well as in the postpartum period. Doulas offer emotional support, reassurance and physical comfort measures to those giving birth and their chosen support people. Doulas are keepers of a wide breadth of knowledge and skills related to the childbearing continuum and can provide a safe space to talk through thoughts, concerns and questions as well as a fully spectrum of evidence based information to aid in decision making. 
Studies show the many benefits that having a doula offers:
  • Labours are shorter
  • There are fewer complications
  • There is less need for oxytocin to speed labour
  • There are fewer forceps or vacuum extraction deliveries
  • There is less need for pain medication or epidurals
  • There are fewer caesarean deliveries 
  • Babies are healthier and they breasted more easily
  • Women express greater satisfaction with their birth experience and an enhanced relationship with their partner. 
(*Information from Mothering the Mother, by Klaus, kennel & Klaus 1993)