Houston Newborn Photographer Interviews Houston Doula

I thought it might be fun to introduce my pregnant (and future pregnant mommy) readers/clients/friends to some of the amazing women in our Houston community from time to time on my blog. So, since I am a Houston newborn photographer, I thought it made sense to start with one fabulous woman that serves pregnant, laboring mamas in all of Houston. I wish I had had support during my labor. My twin sis and husband ended up being my makeshift doulas — they did amazing by the way — but my guess is they probably wish I had had a doula too! ha! I labored for 36 hours, y’all. Not fun. Not fun at all. I needed Latina in my life.

Latina Baxter, Owner of Marley & Moo Maternity Concierge – Image not mine

Meet Latina. Latina is an amazing doula who owns a maternity concierge here in Houston called Marley & Moo Maternity Concierge (go visit her site — I’m in love with her adorable branding). We had yummy brunch at Urban Eats  (seriously…really really good!) and I enjoyed getting to hear her story. I asked if she’d be open to me interviewing her and I’m so happy she was willing to let me ask her some questions.

1) I’m so excited to interview you. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? 

2) What made you decide to become a doula? 

I have always had an interest in women and the birth process. In high school I actually wanted to be a OB/GYN but I knew from a young age that family and being with my family was more important than a job.  After I had Marley, I became intrigued at the birth process and wondered why more women did not choose to take a more natural friendly method to birthing.  During my yoga training a classmate told me I would make an excellent doula.  At first I was very hesitant but after doing much research I quickly knew it was my path.  Now, I am so glad I followed her advice and the little voice inside my head that said go for it.

3) For those of my readers who aren’t aware…can you explain what a doula does? What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?

I love this question!  I recently read a great explanation of a doula and I thought it was such a perfect way to explain what it is that we do.  A doula is like a sherpa.  Sherpas are used to guide mountain climbers on their journey to the top of a mountain.  They are educated on the harsh conditions and how to navigate the mountain successfully no matter what difficulties may arise.  That is exactly what a doula does but for birth.  We are educated on the labor process and know the different outcomes, smells, sounds and experiences that may arise during birth.  Having a trained and confident support person helps the family feel emotionally and physically supported as they navigate to a safe and satisfying birth experience.  The difference between a doula and a midwife is that we do not provide medical care.  Many women believe that having a midwife excludes them from needing a doula and this is a common misconception.  Unlike midwives and OBs, doulas are there with the mom during the entire labor providing comfort measures, massages, and a listening ear.

4) Tell us about your “maternity concierge” — it’s not something that you hear very often but is so intriguing! What makes your company unique?

Marley & Moo Maternity Concierge supports mothers both physically and mentally on their journey to motherhood and beyond.  We start at conception (and sometimes before) by providing emotional support through our maternity consulting and planning services and physically with prenatal yoga.  We then move through the mothers journey to birth day with labor support and well into postpartum with our postpartum recovery and meal service. Our services are 100% customized to meet the needs of the family and all services are done in home.  We love our moms and we do everything we can to ensure they have a fabulous and stress free (or stress reduced) experience – because they deserve it!

 5) What is the one item you can’t live without at your births?

My doTerra Balance oil is a God send.  I don’t know what is in this miracle oil but my moms love it!  They find peace smelling the oil during contractions so I always diffuse it in the room or wear the oil on my neck.

 6) What’s the craziest thing you’ve had happen as a doula?

7) What do you love about being a doula?

8) What piece of advice can you give to all pregnant mamas?

Plan your birth and postpartum early.  Mamas have options in birth and it is so important to understand those options early so they can ensure they put together the right support team that fits their wishes.  As for the postpartum aspect it is okay for moms to be selfish during this time.  They should never be afraid to ask for help and they should always remember that they are still number 1!

To contact Latina visit her website here: http://www.marleymoomaternity.com/

You can also find her on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/marleyandmoomaternity

 Domus Aurea Portraits specializes in high-end, modern newborn, baby and family photography in Houston and surrounding areas but not limited to the Woodlands, Heights, River Oaks, West University Place, Rice Village and Bellaire.

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