Some doulas are birth junkies, others are crazy about babies. I am awed by the birth process, I love the tiny infant who is the big prize, but I do this work because I am a feminist.

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Name: Jennifer Thaney
Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Phone: 651-329-6501
Email address: jenthaney@yahoo.com

Services: My feminism informs this life work and passion of mine because it has instilled in me the firm belief that women have the right to make decisions and choices about their own bodies, including how they give birth. It can be an empowering experience, as long as women, not doctors or hospital policies or insurance companies, are in control. I believe women are strong enough to assert this power, but often lack information needed to make informed decisions, lack the resources and skills to find non-pharmaceutical pain relief, and can always use more support and encouragement to help see them through all the way to the end. I believe partners are integral in this birth process, but that they often need support and guidance, too. I don’t replace partners, I compliment them; if I do my job well, I help you two work well together. As a birth doula, I offer at least two prenatal and postpartum visits, continuous support throughout labor and birth, and unlimited phone/email contact. As a postpartum doula, I will work in your home to help you negotiate this baby wilderness and find a new rhythm as your sense of family and self changes.

Qualifications: I am awaiting certification as a birth doula from DONA, Doulas of North America, and plan to eventually pursue certification as a postpartum doula.

Personal notes: I caught the doula bug in 2003 while living at a retreat community in the Cascade Mountains, of all places, and my first "client" was my fabulous niece. I love playing outdoors, cooking, and fancy myself a hard-working, dedicated servant looking to do justice where I can.