By Maria Garcia Martinez, Certified Doula in Greater Bay Area
People often ask me: “So, what does a doula actually do each day?”
And while I could give a technical answer—like offering prenatal visits, birth support, and postpartum care—the truth is: every day looks different. Every family’s needs are unique. Every birth is sacred. And every moment I spend supporting my clients is filled with compassion, intention, and love.
So today, I’m inviting you into a real day in my life as a Medi-Cal approved doula in California—serving families in Contra Costa, Alameda, and virtually across the state.
☀️ 7:00 AM – Morning Check-ins and Planning
My day starts with a warm cup of tea, my calendar, and a review of messages from clients. Some are checking in after a postpartum visit, some are in early labor and letting me know they’re feeling crampy, and others are preparing for our next prenatal session.
I respond to each one with care—because even a short message like “You’ve got this, mama” can make a big difference in someone’s day.
📅 10:00 AM – Prenatal Visit with a New Client
I meet with a first-time mom who just learned that doula care is free with Medi-Cal. She’s unsure of what to expect during labor. Together, we go over:
- Her birth preferences
- Coping tools for contractions
- How to advocate for herself during delivery
- What support I’ll provide once labor begins
We laugh, we talk, and I remind her that her voice matters in every step of her journey.
🏥 1:00 PM – On-Call for Birth Support
As a doula, I’m always prepared to drop everything when one of my clients goes into active labor. I keep my bag packed with essentials: snacks, massage tools, rebozo, affirmation cards, and backup clothes—because birth is unpredictable, but I come prepared.
Today, no babies are in a hurry. So I check in with a client due next week to make sure she’s feeling supported and prepared.
🧸 4:00 PM – Postpartum Visit
I visit a family who just welcomed their baby two weeks ago. The birthing parent is still healing. They’re unsure about breastfeeding, overwhelmed with sleep schedules, and emotional about the changes.
We talk. I listen. I validate.
Then I:
- Support her in trying new breastfeeding positions
- Offer newborn soothing tips
- Fold a few baby clothes
- And remind her that she’s doing a beautiful job
Sometimes the most important thing I offer isn’t a technique—it’s presence.
💬 8:00 PM – Final Check-ins
Before winding down for the evening, I check my messages again—because babies don’t follow a 9–5 schedule.
I offer reassurance to a mom worried about her induction date. I confirm a birth plan meeting for the weekend. And I say a quiet prayer for all the families I serve.
🌙 What It Really Means to Be a Medi-Cal Doula
Being a doula isn’t just a job. It’s a calling.
And thanks to California’s Medi-Cal Doula Benefit, I get to provide this life-changing support for free to families who might not otherwise have access.
I see birth as a powerful, transformative experience. And I see every parent as worthy of being heard, respected, and loved.
💛 Are You Pregnant and Covered by Medi-Cal?
If you’re in Contra Costa, Alameda, or anywhere in California, and you’re looking for a doula who will show up for you—heart and soul—I’m here.
Medi-Cal covers:
- Prenatal visits
- Birth support
- Postpartum healing
- Emotional wellness after miscarriage, abortion, or stillbirth
📩 Click here to contact me and get started
Let’s make this journey together.
