You know as well as I do that our work isn’t just about supporting births – it’s about constantly learning, connecting, and understanding the different experiences and narratives surrounding childbirth. And what better way to do that than through books? 

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Here’s a cozy list of books that every doula, seasoned or starting, will adore. So, brew a cup of herbal tea, snuggle in your favorite reading nook, and dive right in!

1. Labor Progress Handbook – An absolute gem for understanding the intricacies of labor. This handbook provides insights into promoting normal birth, assessing labor progress, and understanding the physiological processes of labor. It’s like a personal guide for those intense birth moments!

2. Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts – Let’s talk postpartum! This book delves deep into the postpartum mind, discussing fears, anxieties, and the roller-coaster of motherhood. A must-read to understand the complexities of a new mom’s mental state.

3. Latch – This book serves as a guide on the most talked-about topic: lactation. It provides insights and solutions, and supports parents on their breastfeeding/chestfeeding journey, making it a great companion for doulas supporting new families.

5. What God is Honored Here – A heartfelt anthology of narratives from Indigenous women and women of color. It explores the sorrow of loss, the joys of birthing and mothering, and everything in between. As doulas, understanding these deeply moving stories can help us be more compassionate and supportive.

6. Natural Hospital Birth – For those families who want the natural birth experience within a hospital setting, this book is a golden resource. It combines the best of both worlds, providing tips and techniques for a natural birth experience while respecting the hospital’s procedures.

7. The Mother of All Pregnancy Books – As the title suggests, it’s the ultimate guide to everything pregnancy! From the early signs and symptoms to postpartum recovery, this book has answers to pretty much every question a doula or expecting mother could have.

So there you have it! This delightful reading list is for those quiet moments when you’re not rushing off to a birth or supporting a new family. And hey, if you’ve read a fantastic book that’s not on this list, share it in the community! 

Let’s keep our doula community vibrant, informed, and always learning.

Happy reading, dear doulas! May these books inspire you, inform you, and make you fall even more in love with the beautiful journey of birth and parenthood. 

And thanks to JT, TS, AJ, DL, KS for recommending these books during office hours!