Marla Evans
Certified Birth Doula (DONA)
Postpartum & Sibling Support Doula
Infant Toddler Educator
belladoula@gmail.com
604 725 2950

My passion for working with children and families began over ten years ago. As an Infant/Toddler Educator I worked with many women, but no one who influenced me more than Sarah. She has become a life friend and mentored me through my birth doula journey that began in July 2006. It was Sarah’s birth experience with her first son that ignited my passion for understanding the physical and emotional needs of women during this empowering process.

My entry into the birth world began at the Seattle Midwifery School and within a few months I also completed my breastfeeding education and postpartum doula courses at Douglas College. I am humbled each time I have the honour of supporting a woman through labour. When a woman is able to choose to give birth in a place she feels safe, with whom she can trust and be encouraged by, using her knowledge, instincts, and intuition to guide her without fear is when birth is truly cherished as the natural process it is. Every woman should have the information necessary to make educated choices about the care she and her baby receive. Doulas strive to celebrate and protect each uniquely magical moment as a child enters the world.

The first few weeks after birth can feel overwhelming and exhilarating all at the same time, so I am also available to help new mothers or couples transition into parenthood with postpartum support. Mom and baby’s well being after their amazing journey together is my focus. I encourage mothers by fostering their confidence in nurturing their newborn at their breast; sourcing time and space for the natural bonding process to blossom; and always ensuring she is receiving plenty of healthy nourishment and rest. I also support partners in becoming comfortable in their vital role while coping with little sleep and a very different life schedule. I share my baby-friendly and child development knowledge that is research based, but respect each family’s right to adopt a parenting-style that works best for them.

In support of the many siblings who have the opportunity to witness the birth of their little brother or sister, I have also been present as a sibling doula. After an introduction to birth through Bonnie and Sarah’s Sibling Preparation class, I help guide these children through all the excitement of labour and birth in terms and ways they understand. I ensure their basic needs are being met, as well as, being flexible to leave the birthing area to play or rest as they wish.

For more information regarding my philosophy or services I provide please email me: belladoula@gmail.com