Bespoke Doula Support before, during, and after birth
When parents are nurtured, families can thrive
Birth isn't just a single day in your life. It's a time that changes you forever, however you experience it. A baby is born, and so is a mother.
As a birth doula, I'm here to walk alongside you. To reassure you when you’re about to Google “is this normal?”. To help you explore your feelings around birth in a relaxed, judgment-free environment so you can feel calmer and more confident.
I build close relationships with doula clients to become a trusted part of your support system, and to remind you of the choices you have and the power you hold in birth.
The time at the end of pregnancy and in early labour can feel vulnerable and uncertain. It can be loud with voices from friends, family, social media, and the maternity system.
Having the right care and support in place during birth matters, not only to your pregnancy and birth experience, but to your breastfeeding experience and your postpartum mental health. I'm here, by your side supporting you to feel nurtured and empowered along your journey.
“I honestly don’t believe we could have had the birth experience we did without Charlotte. She was supportive, encouraging, knowledgeable, friendly, warm, and truly willing to go above and beyond.”
Working with me as your birth doula
As your birth doula, I’m here to support you before, during, and after birth. I give you the space to feel seen and held, physically and emotionally.
I’m an on-call support system, building a relationship from day one, offering emotional, practical, physical and informational support so that you and your partner can:
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Know you have a reassuring voice at the end of the phone during pregnancy and early labour, supporting you without judgement, if you have a wobble
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Feel educated about physiological birth and navigate the NHS maternity system with confidence
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Feel prepared for feeding and the postpartum period and get off to the best start
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Feel confident you have my emotional, practical and physical support at your birth
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Support you as a trusted friend postpartum to help you thrive physically, mentally and emotionally.
From the very first interview, we immediately connected with Charlotte’s warm personality, vast knowledge of Hypnobirthing, and her approach to supportive, evidence-based care during the birthing process.
Charlotte came prepared for every one of our three prenatal sessions and worked with us to thoughtfully craft our birthing preferences, making sure we felt informed and confident about every decision along the way. When our pregnancy went all the way to 42 weeks + 2 days, Charlotte was there for us with research, resources, and encouragement that gave us the ability to make informed decisions and to find some peace of mind during what was a stressful time.
During labor itself, Charlotte was simply incredible. She kept us grounded and focused by gently reminding us about breathing, movement, and hydration which (speaking from my perspective as the partner) allowed me to be fully present for supporting my wife during the birthing process. Her presence was calm, reassuring, and genuinely uplifting. Thanks to her support, we successfully delivered our 9 lbs. 14 oz. baby boy via water birth — with no interventions and no complications.
I honestly don’t believe we could have had the birth experience we did without Charlotte. She was supportive, encouraging, knowledgeable, friendly, warm, and truly willing to go above and beyond. If you are considering a doula, Charlotte is the person you want by your side.
Andrew Wellons, Birth Doula Client.
“My husband and I sought out a 1:1 hypnobirthing course following a difficult birth with my first child. I felt traumatised by the experience and fearful of going through it again. I could not be happier that we found Charlotte to help.
Charlotte is incredibly knowledgeable and kind, willing to listen and flexible to fit in with us in terms of when we could do the sessions! The sessions flow really well with each one consolidating what we had already learned.
I had a really positive birth and I genuinely believe it wouldn't have happened that way without your help. To go from being terrified about the birth at the outset of my pregnancy, I now feel I could shout from the rooftops about how good it was! What a turnaround.”
Liz Gilderoy, Hypnobirthing client
Your bespoke birth support system
They say “mother the mother.” By nurturing women, mums and parents, their babies (and the whole family unit) have everything they need to thrive.
I offer personal support to hold you through pregnancy, birth, and early postpartum with evidence-based care, built around your needs.
Every parent is different, and every birth experience is different. That’s why I focus on building the client-doula relationship first. You need to be able to put your trust in me, as your birth doula, to listen to your needs, support your decision-making, and empower you with confidence for birth, feeding and postnatal recovery.
I offer three birth doula support packages so you can decide on the level of support that suits your unique needs.
Book a free discovery call today to chat about which level of support works for you.
“Charlotte is a professional, kind and warm person who made us feel at ease. Her practice is neither information overload nor touchy-feely nonsense but is a balanced mix of science and statistics where necessary sprinkled over a base of skills and information on empowerment, self-care and preparing us for the arrival or our baby.
While we both arrived feeling nervous and unsure of what to expect, we have both completed our course feeling knowledgeable and confident to deal with everything from unexpected changes to conversations with our medical team.
It has been invaluable."
Dick, Hypnobirthing partner
“Charlotte is fantastic and quickly puts you at ease in the sessions. Her knowledge and passion is obvious, and I left each session a great deal wiser and happier about the whole process (and most importantly, so did my wife).
If you have slight doubts or nervousness about giving hypnobirthing a go, I encourage you to give it a try. You will be in no better hands than Charlotte, and I am certain the whole birthing experience was made significantly better, more relaxing (as much as that is possible of course!) and enjoyable as a direct result from Charlotte’s sessions.”
Simon Gill, Hypnobirthing partner
“Charlotte's guidance throughout our Hypnobirthing sessions was nothing short of exceptional. Our experience with her classes was beyond delightful.
Her expertise and holistic approach to not only the birthing process but the entire journey of pregnancy are truly remarkable.
This philosophy seamlessly extends to life in its entirety.”
Ben Whitaker, Hypnobirthing partner
FAQ's
What is a Doula?
A doula is a person (like me!) who provides nurturing emotional, practical and informational support to you and your partner (if you have one) during pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period. They support you while you navigate an intense transformational period in your life. Postnatally, a doula’s job is to “mother the mother” and make you feel like a goddess, no matter where or how you give birth. The word 'doula' originates from the ancient Greek language and means 'a woman who serves'. As a birth doula, I have no agenda other than offering options, information, and support. I want you to feel empowered and to thrive physically, emotionally and mentally during your pregnancy, birth and postpartum journey.
Can a doula support a planned caesarean birth?
Yes! Support, information, and care from a trusted source are just as important during a planned C-section as when planning for a vaginal birth. I recommend the Essentials or Advanced doula support package for most parents preparing for a cesarean birth. During your antenatal sessions, we discuss your wants and needs, and any worries you might have about your upcoming birth. You have far more control in a planned caesarean birth than you might realise, and I’m here to show you just how much power you have so that you feel heard, understood and centred in your birth experience. On the day, I offer emotional reassurance and information to support you while you are waiting to be called for your caesarean, I help you remain calm during what can sometimes be an anxious waiting time. I’m there to support you when having conversations with your healthcare providers, so you feel empowered and confident that your unique wants and needs are being met. When you come out of the theatre after your baby is born, I will be waiting for you, ready to offer you any feeding support you might need, however you wish to feed your baby, helping you and your beautiful new baby get off to the best start. Postnatally, a doula’s job is to “mother the mother” and make you feel like a goddess, no matter where or how you give birth. The word 'doula' originates from the ancient Greek language and means 'a woman who serves'. As a birth doula, I have no agenda other than offering options, information, and support. I want you to feel empowered and to thrive physically, emotionally and mentally during your pregnancy, birth and postpartum journey.
Can a doula attend a hospital birth?
Yes, absolutely! I would argue that someone giving birth in a hospital would benefit from doula support at least as much, if not more than, someone giving birth at home. This is true whether you plan to give birth in hospital or are transferred there from a home birth. Having someone you can trust in your corner, who understands birth, the maternity system, and the unique choices you’ve discussed, can be empowering in a moment which can feel quite vulnerable.
What is virtual doula support?
I offer all clients virtual support during the antenatal and postpartum period. Virtual support is available 9 am-5 pm, Monday-Friday, via WhatsApp. This includes video calls, voice calls, text messages, photos, and/or voicenotes. I will be on the other end of the phone with space to vent, validate your feelings, and seek reassurance, so you don’t have to Google “is this normal?” every time you have a question.
What happens in a bespoke in-person antenatal session?
All clients get bespoke in-person private antenatal sessions. Sessions cover structured topics related to pregnancy support, birth and postnatal prep. Each antenatal session lasts 2.5 hours. Antenatal sessions allow you to feel heard, validated, and fully supported. They give you a safe space to ask all the questions you need without fear of judgment, so you can: Build a strong relationship with your birth doula (me!) Fully understand and express your unique wants and needs for birth Work through any worries or fears Your antenatal sessions are private and 1:1 (or 1:2, if you include a partner or other parent).They can be completely tailored to your unique situation. We can discuss: - Previous birth debrief - Birth physiology and hormones - Biomechanics - Birth environment - Pain relief and comfort measures - NHS maternity system - Informed decision making - Information signposting - Birth plan writing - Postnatal preparation - Breastfeeding / infant feeding support
What is an antenatal waiting brew?
The end of pregnancy is no joke. When you’re waiting for your baby to be born or labour to start, every day can feel a week long, so I’m here during your “on call” period from 38 weeks to have an informal, unstructured, 90 minute brew. These catch-ups give you space to breathe during what can feel like a tense time. During these brew meet-ups, we can: - Coach, cheerlead, and boost morale - Debrief from any appointments you have attended - Discuss information and your birth choices - Build a strong client-doula relationship I’ve got your back with reassurance, information and emotional support when you’re feeling pressure, doubt and like you might actually be pregnant forever—spoiler you won’t be!
What does in-person attendance at midwife and antenatal appointments look like?
For Elite support package clients, I will also attend four midwife and/or antenatal appointments with you. By accompanying you to appointments, I act as an extra pair of ears to process and talk through information. You have the reassurance of support from someone who understands your unique wants and needs. I also have experience navigating the NHS maternity system and can help make complex information more accessible. Helping you feel less overwhelmed, confused and able to have your voice and wishes heard.
What does it mean to be on-call in the waiting period?
For all birth doula clients, I am on-call from 38 weeks until birth, or 42 weeks. I do everything in my power to be available to attend your birth, whenever it happens, day or night, during this time. This includes making sure I stay local to home and have back up plans in place to cover my own family’s care and other personal and work commitments. During this period I offer you virtual support in early labour (whatever time of the day or night it happens), and in-person attendance for practical, emotional, and physical support when you feel the time is right. During the on-call period, I am available to: - Provide emotional support for any wobbles - Signpost you to helpful information - Help you understand and navigate the maternity system.
What is included in birth attendance?
I aim to attend the birth for all birth doula clients (which is why I am always on-call during the waiting period, with backup plans arranged to cover my own family’s care and other personal or work commitments). During early labour, I am always available for virtual support. This includes video calls, voice calls, text messages, photos, and/or voicenotes via WhatsApp for emotional support, cheerleading, and support with information and decision-making. When you feel the time is right, I will attend your birth in-person to provide practical, emotional, and physical support during your labour, birth and transition to parenthood. This could include: - Setting up your birth environment - Supporting your decision-making with information - Advocating for your needs if needed - Taking photographs and videos on your phone - Being your drinks and snack butler to ensure you are properly fuelled during labour - Offering emotional reassurance and helping you feel safe and looked after - Supporting with the first feed (however you wish to feed) - Staying with you after birth until you and your baby are settled - Draining and packing away the birth pool, if at home. Trusting me to do all this helps your birth partner be completely present emotionally and physically with you during your birth. They aren’t busy doing these jobs because I am, and you are an amazing birth team.
What happens if two births happen on the same day?
I prioritise bookings based on a first-come basis. You will be made aware when booking if I am already "on call" for another birth at that time, and I can arrange for a backup doula - who you can meet beforehand - who is available to support you if I am otherwise engaged. The likelihood of babies being born at the same time is pretty slim, even with the same due dates.
What is a Rebozo?
A Rebozo is a traditional hand-woven Mexican scarf used for comfort, relaxation, and to assist with biomechanical techniques during pregnancy and labour. Specific biomechanical manoeuvres can help relax muscles and optimise the pelvic capacity, aiding the progression of your labour.
What happens in an in-person postnatal doula support session?
In-person postnatal doula support sessions are typically 2-3 hours long. I come into your home to support you in anything you may need during the postpartum period. Postnatal doula support is a time for me to care for your emotional and physical needs, helping you feel fully supported, rested, and thriving so you can focus on yours and your baby's needs. All doula support I offer is bespoke to your unique wants and needs, and postnatal doula support is no different. You might use your postnatal hours for: - A thorough birth debrief to help you reflect and process your experience - Emotional support and reassurance by listening, validating, and holding space so you feel fully supported and less overwhelmed or alone - Breastfeeding support with positioning, latch, milk supply, newborn behaviour and signposting where necessary, so you can feel confident you are getting off to the best start on your breastfeeding journey. - Newborn support with sleep, understanding normal newborn behaviour - Practical support, such as washing and sterilising bottles, light housework such as wiping down kitchen counters, helping with older children or holding the baby while you shower or nap. - Postnatal appointment attendance Monday-Friday, 9 am-3 pm - Discussing and signposting to any further support you might want
What is included in virtual postnatal support?
Depending on the support package you choose, I offer doula clients virtual support up to six weeks postpartum. Virtual support is available 9 am-5 pm, Monday-Friday, via WhatsApp. This includes video calls, voice calls, text messages, photos, and/or voicenotes. Whether you need space to vent, someone to validate your experiences, or a trusted friend to ask ‘is this normal?’, I am on the other end of the phone to support you.
What if I have complications during pregnancy or labour?
As an experienced doula and birthworker, I have a good knowledge and experience with many pregnancy and labour complications. Depending on your exact situation, I may also be able to signpost you to helpful information, studies, or more specialised support.
What happens if my baby comes early?
If you go into labour before the on-call period has started, I will endeavour to attend the birth as I would during the on-call period, though this may not always be possible due to other commitments. If I cannot attend in person, I will endeavour to be available for virtual support. Depending on your exact situation, I may be able to pivot your support to postnatal doula support and offer emotional and informational signpost support for premature labour, premature baby care, and the NICU. Should you give birth before you have used your bespoke antenatal sessions or pre-natal brews, we may be able to arrange for those hours to be used for additional postnatal support.
Can I bring other people along to our sessions?
Yes! I encourage you to bring your birthing partner, whether that is the father/other parent, or a trusted friend/support person. This way, you can learn and prepare for birth as a team.
Can you just attend the birth, with no pre- or post- natal support?
This is not a service I offer. Birth doula support is based on a foundation of a trusting relationship, which I cannot offer without multiple sessions together.
How can I reach you to ask more?
If I haven’t answered all your questions here, you can always email hello@positivebirthleeds.co.uk or book a free, no-obligation discovery call.
Locations served
I offer doula support within an approximately 1 hour drive of Leeds LS8 including:
North Leeds, Central Leeds, East Leeds, South Leeds, West Leeds, Barnsley, Boroughbridge, Bradford, Bramham, Castleford, Harewood, Harrogate, Huddersfield, Ilkley, Knaresborough, Otley, Pateley Bridge, Ripon, Selby, Shipley, Tadcaster, Wakefield, Wetherby, York, West Yorkshire,
This list is not exhaustive, if you would like to work with me and don’t see your location listed, please get in touch and we can have a chat.