Tag: doula

Becoming a doula has been one of the most meaningful callings of my life and not just professionally, but personally. As a mother of three, I know what it feels like to be vulnerable, excited, scared, and overwhelmed. I’ve been there. That’s why the care I provide is deeply rooted in empathy, lived experience, and your real needs.

I offer support that is warm, grounded, trauma-informed, and tailored to YOU. Whether it’s your first or your fifth baby, I want to hear your story. I want to understand what matters most to you and meet you where you are not with a script, but with presence, information, and trust.

But I’ve learned something important along the way: not every consult is a good fit, and that’s okay.

In the past, I’ve spent 15, 20, even 30 minutes on calls where I was essentially “interviewed” only for the person to disappear without a trace. And while I understand that everyone wants to find the right doula, I’ve created a system to make that easier upfront, for both of us.

If you’re only looking to compare doulas or “shop around,” I may not be the right fit for you.

This isn’t a side gig or a checklist service. I offer real-time emotional check-ins, physical presence at birth, hands-on help with breastfeeding, baby care, bath time, you name it. I support my clients in feeling heard, informed, and never alone.

I protect my time and energy so I can show up fully for families who are ready for that level of care.

What You’ll Find On My Website (So You Don’t Have to Ask)

• How long I’ve been a doula
• What kinds of support I offer (prenatal, birth, postpartum)
• How I work with Medi-Cal, Kaiser, and private insurance
• My philosophy, background, and what I expect from clients
• Why the number of births I’ve attended isn’t the whole story. I bring not only professional training but also the wisdom and empathy of a mother who’s walked this path three times herself

I want to be clear: I’m not here to sell you something. I’m here to partner with you. I’m your birth and postpartum assistant your emotional anchor, your informational guide, and a steady presence. Whether it’s helping you understand birth procedures, supporting you during labor, preparing you to speak up with your provider, or guiding you through those tender early days with your baby, breastfeeding, baby care, or simply checking in emotionally. I walk beside you through each step. I also help with light chores, finding resources or referrals, and anything else you may need to feel supported and confident. I’m here for you.

My Free Consults Are for Families Ready to Receive Support

If you’re thinking, “Yes, I want that kind of presence,” then I’d love to connect with you.

I’m also happy to answer a few quick questions by text or email before scheduling a free 15-minute consultation. Sometimes that’s all it takes to know if we’re the right fit.

But if you’re still unsure, still exploring, that’s completely fine too. Just know that my free consults are reserved for families who are ready to begin this journey and want someone by their side.

Why I Ask for Insurance Verification First

Because of the number of false or incomplete inquiries I receive, I ask that clients planning to use insurance (Medi-Cal, Kaiser, or others) provide a photo of their insurance card, full name, date of birth, and member ID before scheduling.

This step ensures we use our time intentionally and helps me prepare to serve you from the very first conversation.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Take a look around my site. Read about my services. Reflect on what you truly want from your doula. And if we feel aligned. I’m here, with open hands and a full heart, ready to walk with you.

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.

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☀️ 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.

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📅 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.

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🏥 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.

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🧸 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.

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💬 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.

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🌙 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.

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💛 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.

By Maria Garcia Martinez, Certified Medi-Cal Approved Doula Serving Contra Costa & Alameda Counties

Are you expecting a baby and currently enrolled in Medi-Cal? You may qualify for free doula services—and I’m here to help you every step of the way.

As a certified Medi-Cal approved doula, my role is to provide compassionate, one-on-one support before, during, and after birth—all at no cost to you.

What Is a Doula?

A doula is a trained birth professional who provides emotional, physical, and informational support during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. Unlike a doctor or nurse, my focus is on you—your comfort, your voice, and your experience.

I’m here to walk with you, to listen, and to help you feel more confident every step of the way.

What Does Medi-Cal Cover for Doula Services?

Medi-Cal covers the full cost of doula care. Here’s what you’re entitled to:

• One 90-minute initial visit to talk about your birth preferences and care goals
• Up to 8 additional visits (a mix of prenatal and postpartum support)
• Continuous labor and birth support, including comfort techniques and emotional encouragement
• Two 3-hour extended postpartum visits, focused on recovery, breastfeeding, newborn care, and mental health

These services are provided at no cost to you and are designed to help you have a safer, more supported birth experience.

Who Qualifies?

If you’re pregnant or have given birth within the last 12 months and have Medi-Cal coverage—you qualify. It’s that simple.

You do not need a separate referral or doctor’s note. California has issued a standing recommendation for doula care, meaning you can book services right away.

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How I Can Support You

I’m Maria, and I’ve had the honor of supporting many growing families through one of the most beautiful and transformative moments of their lives. I serve clients in Contra Costa County, Alameda County, and surrounding areas. I also offer virtual options for families outside these locations.

Here’s how I support you:

• I meet you where you are, whether you’re preparing for your first baby or welcoming another little one.
• I provide comfort techniques during labor, help with birth planning, emotional support, newborn care education, and postpartum check-ins.
• I make sure your voice is heard in every setting—whether it’s at home, a hospital, or a birthing center.

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How to Get Started

1. Make sure you have active Medi-Cal coverage (if you’re unsure, I can help you check!)
2. Book your free consultation with me
3. We’ll schedule your first visit and talk about your hopes, questions, and goals

That’s it! No complicated process. No extra cost. Just care, guidance, and support—when you need it most.

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Welcoming a new baby into the world is an exciting and life-changing experience, but it can also be filled with challenges and uncertainties. One professional who provides invaluable support during this journey is a doula. Whether you’re preparing for childbirth or navigating postpartum life, understanding the role of a doula can help you make informed decisions about your birth plan and postpartum care.

What is a Doula?

A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a person before, during, and after childbirth. The word ‘doula’ comes from ancient Greek, meaning ‘a woman who serves,’ and today, doulas serve families by offering non-medical support tailored to the needs of the birthing person and their family.

Types of Doulas

There are different types of doulas, each specializing in a particular phase of the birthing journey:

1. Birth Doula: Supports families during labor and delivery by providing comfort techniques, encouragement, and guidance.
2. Postpartum Doula: Assists families in the early weeks after birth, offering help with newborn care, breastfeeding support, and emotional assistance.
3. Antepartum Doula: Helps families facing high-risk pregnancies or medical complications by providing practical and emotional support.
4. Death Doula: Although not related to childbirth, death doulas support individuals and families during end-of-life care, highlighting the diverse nature of the doula role.

What Does a Doula Do During Childbirth?

During labor and delivery, a doula remains a constant presence, providing techniques such as breathing exercises, massage, and positioning to help manage pain and discomfort. They also offer emotional reassurance, advocate for the birthing person’s wishes, and facilitate communication with the medical team.

The Role of a Postpartum Doula

After birth, the support continues as postpartum doulas assist with newborn care, breastfeeding, and household tasks. They also offer emotional support as new parents adjust to life with a baby, helping reduce the risk of postpartum depression and fostering confidence in parental roles.

Benefits of Having a Doula

Research shows that having a doula can lead to:

• Shorter labor duration
• Reduced need for pain medication
• Lower rates of cesarean delivery
• Higher satisfaction with the birth experience
• Improved postpartum mental health

How to Choose the Right Doula

Finding the right doula involves considering your personal needs and preferences. Many doulas offer consultations where you can discuss your birth plan, comfort measures, and any specific support you need. Certifications, experience, and compatibility are essential factors when making your choice.

Doulas are compassionate advocates who offer unwavering support throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum life. Whether you’re looking for hands-on assistance during labor or emotional guidance afterward, a doula can be a valuable partner in your journey to parenthood. Investing in a doula means prioritizing your well-being and ensuring you have the support needed during one of life’s most significant transitions.