Malena Sweers

Before transitioning into birth work I supported agricultural cycles through farm labor, life cycles are constant sources of amazement and education. I thrive in support roles where I get to tune in and respond to a client’s specific situation, cares and concerns. I simply really appreciate my job and put forth great effort into it. When I’m not working you might find me puttering in the garden, hiking with my dog, cooking meals with the community, getting up to some crafty shenanigans, or napping on the porch.

What I circle back to the most in perinatal work is the worth of showing up for one another. When certain plans go out the window, holding someone’s hand who gives you their full presence goes a very long way. Ask me any questions about my relationship to birth work or doula service logistics in a complimentary interview!

All birthing and parenting experiences are informed by our cultural backgrounds. The foundation of effective birthwork is anti-racism, anti-oppression, LGBTQ and BIPOC affirming. Trained through DONA international, prioritizing trauma informed care. Mentored by and working alongside Natasha Joyet. https://www.natashajoyet.com/

External support

  • Doula support makes partners more fully available to offer the birthing person various comfort measures and take breaks.

  • Not attached to your parenting/family unit, doulas prioritize unbiased support for your birth preferences.

  • Preparing for birth with a professional support advocate increases your sense of preparedness and confidence through the entire perinatal process. 

  • When birthing at a hospital it is unlikely you will know which of the medical staff will be caring for your labor and delivery and may experience multiple shift changes while there. Hiring a doula means you can expect the continuous presence of a professional you know!

Evidence

  • In 2014 the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynocologists (ACOG) released a statement that the single most important thing someone can do to decrease their chance of cesarean is to have "the continuous presence of support personnel, such as a doula”.

  • A 2017 systematic Cochrane review showed that having continuous labor support makes one more likely to have a vaginal birth, shorter labor, less likely to have a cesarean delivery, instrument-assisted delivery (vacuum, forceps), regional pain medication, low APGAR scores, or a negative birth experience.