Heather Neville - Labour Doula/Childbirth Educator

I am an independent labour doula and childbirth educator, trained by the Childbirth and Postpartum Professionals Association (CAPPA) of Canada. I am currently working towards certification in both of these professional capacities and eagerly looking for opportunities to support labouring women and their partners. I also offer prenatal classes in both private and public settings. Finally, I have a writing background and am looking for freelance opportunities to write about issues related to birth and individual rights in birthing contexts. I believe that prenatal education and good support can provide self-esteem, self-confidence and trust in one’s natural abilities and instincts throughout pregnancy and childbirth. These elements combined can lead to more empowering birth experiences in which birthing women make informed decisions, play an active role in their health care and are able to anticipate and experience their births with strength, joy and pride. I also believe that prenatal education and doula support can encourage the partners of birthing women to embrace the role of active participant in the births of their children, respecting and admiring the woman in labour, while engaging with the process and providing comfort and support with confidence.