Sophie - Birth & Postnatal Doula in Buckinghamshire
I was brought up in Buckinghamshire and then lived and worked in London for 25 years. I've been fascinated by birth and babies since I was a teenager and when I moved out of London in 2018 after a career as a nanny I decided to become a doula.
As a Birth and Postnatal Doula, it’s always a privilege to be part of such special and unique experiences. I believe every birth and postnatal journey is different, and my role is to offer support with kindness, empathy, and respect for your individual needs.
The enquiry form may be experiencing intermittent problems so you may wish to contact me directly. sophie@calmdoula.co.uk
Birth Doula Services
During our antenatal meetings, we’ll explore every aspect of pregnancy, birth physiology, comfort measures, pain relief in hospital and positions for birth. I’ll also provide support with navigating the reality of the NHS system, so you feel informed and prepared for your upcoming birth. It really helps to talk about all the choices you might have in each birth scenario and to identify what is really important to you. I can help you write a birth plan which is a good way of communicating your wishes to healthcare professionals. Knowing that you will have the continuity of a trusted and familiar face during labour and birth is proven to positively impact outcomes for mothers and babies. These benefits go beyond the immediate birth experience, they include increased rates of breastfeeding and lower rates of postnatal depression. I believe that feeling respected and heard in your choices makes a world of difference, and can shape your birth experience long after the event itself.
For most births I come to your home and support you in early labour with comfort measures and care until you decide to go into hospital. I'll be with you however long your labour lasts and for a time afterwards which can be useful if you would like help showering or breastfeeding. If you have chosen an induction I can be with you as much as hospital visiting allows until you are in established labour. I'm also there to reassure your birth partner and help them feel involved in the process every step of the way.
My commitment is to support your birth preferences, no matter where or how you choose to give birth. I will be there for you (and your birth partner, if you have one) emotionally, physically, and practically, staying by your side until after your baby has arrived and you’re confident for me to leave. I have experience supporting families choosing hospital, birth centre and home births. I have supported vbac, caesarean, waterbirth, induction and augmentation.
Postnatal Doula Services
In the early days and weeks of parenthood, I offer tailored support that helps you feel confident as you adjust to life with your new baby. Whether it's holding the baby while you rest or shower, listening over a cup of tea, or helping with practical tasks like meal prep, shopping, light housework, or caring for other children, I’m here to help. I know that the postnatal period can feel overwhelming, and sometimes a little extra help can make all the difference. So many new parents don’t have family nearby that they can call on. And sometimes families come with unsolicited and outdated advice that can undermine the confidence of new parents trying to navigate their new dynamic!
Postnatally, you can book me in advance if you know what you will need, or on an adhoc basis from 4 hrs a days, up to 5 times a week. I'm pretty flexible!
I also offer overnight support which can be particularly useful for recovering from birth and for families with energetic toddlers. If you're exclusively breastfeeding, I can bring your baby to you for feeds and settle them back to sleep, giving you time to rest. When I leave in the morning I will have washed and sterilised any bottles or dummies used. I’ve worked with many families with twins, and babies born prematurely.
A Bit About Me
In addition to being a qualified doula, I’m a Norland Nanny with over 30 years of experience, working with families from birth through to teenagers. I’ve also worked as a part-time Teaching Assistant and Marketing Manager in an independent school in London. One of my first nanny charges has just had their second baby, which I’m so excited about!
I’m passionate about ongoing learning and regularly take Continuing Professional Development courses. My most recent certifications include Biomechanics for Birth, Supporting Neurodivergent Birth, Moxibustion, SANDS Supporting Baby Loss, Hyperemesis Gravidarum, and LGBTQIA+ inclusion. I also hold a current DBS, insurance, and Paediatric First Aid certificate. Most of my previous clients are happy to be contacted if you'd like to know what it's like to have me as your doula.
Service Area
I work across a wide range of areas including Abingdon, Amersham, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Berkhamstead, Bicester, Chesham, The Chalfonts, Didcot, Gerrards Cross, Great Missenden, Henley, High Wycombe, Leighton Buzzard, Maidenhead, Marlow, Milton Keynes, Oxford, Princes Risborough, Thame, Towcester, Tring, and Wendover. I'm happy to travel up to an hour (or slightly more) from where I live. Hospitals I regularly attend include Stoke Mandeville, The John Radcliffe, Milton Keynes, Wexham Park, Hillingdon and Watford General, as well as the standalone birthing centres in Bucks, Oxon, and Herts. I'm happy to travel to North London for overnight support.
If you have Carrot as your insurance provider I am pre approved for Birth and Postnatal services.
The enquiry form may be experiencing intermittent problems so you may wish to contact me directly. sophie@calmdoula.co.uk
What Clients Say
“Words cannot describe how Sophie has helped me and my partner during my pregnancy, labour, and postpartum period. Sophie is so kind, considerate, and gentle in her approach, making us feel listened to and empowered. I had a really positive labour and I attribute that to having the best doula!” – LJ, Watford
"I can’t tell you how much peace and energy she brought our household." - TM, Oxfordshire
“It’s no exaggeration to say that you rescued me when I was at my most vulnerable. For that, I will always carry you in my heart.” – EW, Jordans
"We needed someone who would hear us and help us achieve what we wanted. And we got exactly what we hoped for….. a space protector, a wishes guardian, Sophie completed the puzzle." KG- Oxfordshire
"She’s great at her job and passionate about ensuring birthing people and families are protected, listened to and cared for. She is knowledgable, listens to individual needs and is gentle in her approach." - AB, Bucks
“Sophie empowered us to make decisions, guiding us to create the best plan for our situation.” – OD, Milton Keynes
"She came into our home and fitted right into the chaos and routine, she made me feel instantly comfortable. Sophie is such a lovely person, everyone in the family loved having her with us, even our dog!" - NP Bucks
“Sophie is caring, knowledgeable, dependable, trustworthy, and passionate about her work. She supported our whole family to the highest degree.” – MR, Stoke Mandeville
Get In Touch
If you think I might be the right doula to support you at this special time, I’d love to hear from you. You can find more information on my website: www.calmdoula.co.uk.
