Black and white photo of a woman wearing a lace bralette and shorts, sitting on a bed with crossed arms and tattoos on her wrist, in a dimly lit room.

Doula Support

Pregnany, Birth and Postnatal

As a certified independent experience doula, I provide birth and postnatal support across Nottingham which includes support during pregnancy, birth attendance and support after birth.

My role is to provide emotional support with guidance, reassurance and continuity of care to you throughout your pregnancy, birth and postpartum; I will be with you every step of the way.

I am on hand for any questions that you may have ( I promise there is never a silly question when it comes to birth; if you've thought it then someone else has too).

I LOVE to research and should you need more information, studies or resources to help you make a medical decision about your care I am on hand to provide you with evidence based resources and information you may need.

I will never judge your choices and will only support you to make informed decisions by providing evidence based information and guidance to help plan for your birth.

I have first hand experience in supporting families who are neurodivergent, planning a home birth, planning a caesarean birth, induction of labour and birthing in hospital.

I have supported families planning a VBAC and HBAC births and clients with additional medical needs.

I have supported families birthing at Derby Maternity Hospital, Kingsmill Maternity Hospital (Sherwood Trust)and NUH (both Queens & City Maternity Hospitals).

I have supported families choosing to birth at home under Nottingham home birth team, Derby home birth team and Newark home birth team.

A heartfelt testimonial over a black and white photo of a person holding a textured towel, with purple quotation marks in the background.
Text overlay on a grayscale image of a person holding a towel, sharing a birth experience about a long labor and support from a partner.
A heartfelt message about the support received during the baby's arrival, with a background of a person holding a baby, in black and white with purple quotation marks.

My Role as a Doula

Antenatal Birth Preparation

Preparing for birth can be an empowering experience and I am a total believer that knowledge is power. I will help you and your partner (if you have one) to prepare and plan for the birth you want during our antenatal sessions.

These sessions are a really important part of doula support as it allows me to get to know you as a family so I can best support you.

We can work through any fears you may have that are holding you back. Mental preparation for birth is often the biggest parts of birth preparation and I can support you build a positive mindset for birth.

I can also sign post you to any evidence based resources to help you make the right decisions for you and your family. We can cover any questions that you may have and you are welcome to borrow any books from my collection.

If you have booked a package that includes more than two antenatal sessions, we can include my hypnobirthing basic course which will cover important birth and postnatal topics and practical skills.

I will also continue you to support you virtually as you navigate your pregnancy (it means I am on hand to chat/ask questions and offer a supportive listening ear).

In Person Birth Support

I will go on call 10 days ahead of your estimated due date and I will remain on call for you until your baby arrives. I am available 24/7 to join you at your place of birth when it's time to meet your baby.

I am trained in aromatherapy and able to offer physical support during labour with the use of massage, aromatherapy and acupressure to help with pain relief as well rebozo and biomechanical movements to support optimal position during pregnancy and encourage and support labour. I can help with positioning, snacks, getting the birth pool ready, setting up your birth environment, - anything that will support you to feel relaxed and calm and support your birth.

I will advocate for your wishes and choices without judgement and do my very best to make sure your birth choices are protected and supported. Advocacy is a big part of my role and I am very comfortable advocating and being your voice when you need me to or support you or your partner to advocate for yourself.

I love to support birth partners (if you have one) and I will support them to support you; whether that’s teaching them massage techniques and hands on support or helping them understand the role of the partner and what they can do to support you during labour and birth. My role is never to take over from your partner, they know you the most and I will support them in their role to feel a confident birth partner for you.

I also offer hands off feeding support which means whether you decide to breast/chest feed, bottle feed, express or combi feed I will offer gentle guidance and support to help you with your feeding goal.

Postnatal Support

The first few weeks post birth can sometimes feel overwhelming as you navigate your new role as a mother/parent, whether it is your first, second or third baby.

My role as a postnatal doula is to provide non-judgmental practical and emotional support to you and your family to help ease this transition as you adjust to life with your new baby.

My birth and postnatal packages include postnatal visit in those first few weeks post birth. During these visits I will bring you some nourishing food, we will debrief/talk about your birth. I can offer breast/chest/bottle feeding support and talk through any worries you may have or help with any tasks around the house to help you rest and recover.

I also offer virtual support for the first 6 weeks post birth for any questions or worries you may have so that you know you always have someone there in the background ready to support.

Kind Words…

  • "My baby is now three months old, and I’ve wanted to write this review since the day he was born. I’ll be honest though, I’ve struggled to find the right words to truly describe how amazing, blessed, and fortunate we feel to have had Amy and Kerry as our doulas (shared care). This was my fourth baby. Although I’d had “straightforward” births with my other children, particularly with my third I felt I really had to advocate for myself. Knowing this would be my last baby, I didn’t want to spend my pregnancy, birth, and postpartum period feeling like I was battling everything alone. My partner is incredible and supportive in every way imaginable, but I needed someone firmly in our corner - someone who could be that steady, knowledgeable voice so he could focus fully on supporting me. Having Amy and Kerry at the end of the phone whenever I was weighing up decisions was invaluable. They always came back with research based information and provided a completely judgement free space for me to talk things through".

  • "We had planned a home birth, but Derbyshire suspended the service when I called to request midwives. That was one of my biggest fears and definitely sent me into a mini spiral. However, I felt fully supported in every decision that followed. Kerry arrived and was immediately so reassuring. Without going into my full birth story, it ended in an unintentional freebirth and it was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. It did feel scary at times (thank you to the NHS and the media for all the constant scaremongering), but Kerry brought such a deep sense of calm to the situation. That calm radiated to my partner and my sister, who was also present".

  • "Kerry was incredibly proactive with whatever needed doing. When I felt nauseous, she brought out essential oils. She gently guided my partner when it was time for him to catch our baby. She instinctively knew what to do afterwards - warming the water again (I should mention we had a water birth), placing a hat and towel on baby, supporting me in those first precious moments, helping me out of the pool, and offering tips to encourage the placenta to birth. She handled communication with medical staff so I could stay fully present in that golden time with my baby. Afterwards, she cleaned everything. You would never have known I’d given birth in our living room if you’d walked in a couple of hours later. She got us settled into bed with our baby, comfortable and cared for".

  • "Postpartum, I was completely spoilt with heartwarming meals (and even during pregnancy with the most incredible dates!). I truly wish I could put into words how special it was to have Amy and Kerry by our side. Kerry attended my birth, but Amy supported me throughout pregnancy and postpartum as well. They really are the best duo. If you’re considering hiring a doula - especially Amy and Kerry - I cannot recommend it enough. Forget the unnecessary baby items. Invest in something that will shape your entire pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experience".

  • “The most amazing person!I cannot express enough how incredible Kerry was as my doula.I am so grateful for the incredible support she provided during my challenging birth experience. I had initially planned for a water birth at home, but after being induced, 4 days of hospital issues, intense contractions I then needed an emergency C-section, she was there every step of the way for. Her calm presence, encouragement, and guidance helped me stay focused and empowered, even when things didn’t go as planned.Her support during pregnancy and labour was beyond anything I could have imagined.She truly made a difficult and emotional experience much more manageable, and I’m so thankful for all her help in bringing my baby girl into the world 🙏❤️”

  • "We hired Kerry for doula support for the birth of our son in April... It's hard to put into words how invaluable having her at our birth was, especially as I ended up needing an unplanned c section. Kerry advocated for us, and made us feel in control in a situation where without her, I think it could have felt traumatic and easily become a birth experience I don't look back at with fondness. Before and after the birth Kerry was there to help with any questions we had, nothing felt like too much and she created a relaxed, judgement free environment and provided me with the confidence I needed going into birth. I look back at my birth with so much joy and having Kerry there is absolutely a part of that - Thank you for everything❤️"

  • "Kerry was the perfect doula from our first antenatal session to our final post natal session. I only wish I had an angel like Kerry for the birth of my first son!! Kerry was cool and collected throughout every obstacle we faced ( which in the last 2 weeks was a few as I became "overdue") but equally always ready to advocate for me and my needs. She empowered me to listen to my gut and speak my truth throughout my pregnancy and really trust to my instincts. Armed with the facts and so much experience, we navigated every twist, and turn was so much more ease, thanks to Kerry's expertise and care. The day of the birth itself, I genuinely don't know what I would have done without her support practically with our homebirth, but most importantly, mentally. She was there for me and my fiancé at very moment. We feel so blessed to have met Kerry, and I can not recommend her enough!"

  • "Kerry is a fantastic hypnobirthing teacher who gives you all the information you need, backed with data in a non judgemental way. Even though it was my 3rd birth, I learned so much and felt like I had all the information I needed to make informed and safe decisions. Kerry was always on hand for advice and information, I don’t know what I would have done without her. She was also my postnatal doula, and she helped me with feeding myself and my other two children, advice with feeding my baby and someone to talk through my birth with. Kerry played such a huge part in my preparation, decision making and early post natal period and had a huge impact in making the experience as positive and wonderful as possible"

  • "I was looking for a doula specifically for postnatal support and came across Kerry - it ended up being the best decision working with her! During a period that can be completely overwhelming, she was there to help, both practically (making meals, helping set things up) and emotionally. If you are considering a doula, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her, she made the world of difference to me and my partner".

  • "I can't recommend Kerry's services as a doula enough! I didn't realise it before that she was such an important part to my birthing team, she was a huge support to me during labour but also to my husband, helping us both navigate the system but also helping my husband to be the best support. Kerry was so kind, she encouraged me when I needed it and also asked a consultant to leave the room, when I needed it! Hehe. If you're considering having a doula, I'd say do it!! It was the best decision we made, even though the birth wasn't exactly as I'd hoped, with Kerry's support, I was really confident with the decisions I made in the moment. Thank you!"

  • "Thanks sooo much for everything. I definitely wouldn't have got through any of it without you being there. You really did make a difference in how we were feeling through the whole process and allowed for Ash to really help with emotional support I needed at the time. Also your cake has been a godsend! It's sooo lovely and I'm still making my way through it. It gave me a 3am energy hit this morning when I was struggling"

  • Six months ago, we welcomed our baby girl into the world, and we honestly couldn’t have done it without Kerry. Kerry is amazing, knowledgeable, calm, and a true advocate for the birth experience we wanted. During labour, we had many different midwives, and she adapted her approach to each of their personalities so seamlessly, always ensuring we were supported and that our wishes were followed. Our labour was long (36 hours!) and had a few unexpected twists, (we were initially sent home and then had to return to the hospital), but she was there through it all. She came back to the hospital again and stayed with us the entire time until our baby was born. Throughout labour, she kept bringing out new techniques to support me, (from the Rebozo to massage balls and combs), helping me manage each stage and stay as comfortable and focused on the moment. She ensured my husband and I could stay grounded and present, taking care of everything around us so we could fully focus on the moment. After our baby arrived, her support didn’t stop. She stayed with us and watched over our baby while I received aftercare. Having someone we trust with us meant so much in those first vulnerable but precious moments. We are so grateful for Kerry’s support and care. She was truly an unforgettable part of our journey.

Doula Packages

I offer two packages below for pregnancy, birth attendance and postartum support. You can also build your own bespoke package (if you would like more/less antenatal or postnatal sessions. I do recommend a minimum of two antenatal sessions (unless we have worked together before) to help us get to know each other and plan your birth and postnatal journey.

I also offer “virtual doula support” for families who are looking for someone to support them virtually/remotely. Virtual doua support is continuous support through pregnancy, birth and postpartum via messaging and phone/video calls and perfect for those that may not want in person support but would like someone to support them along their journey.

If you think virtual doula support is for you please get in contact to chat further.

Birth & Postnatal Support Package

£1,450

This package includes pregnancy and postnatal support, birth attendance and birth preparation.

  • 2 X antenatal sessions to help prepare and plan your birth

  • 24/7 on call ten days ahead of your estimated due date

  • Virtual support throughout your pregnancy

  • In person birth support wherever you plan to give birth

  • Help planning for the postpartum period

  • 1 X postnatal visit including birth debrief/reflection session

  • Virtual support throughout your postnatal period for up to 6 weeks post birth

  • Access to my resource area, workshops and books.

  • TENs and Birth pool should you wish to use one.

  • Access to my doula kit including my aromatherapy diffuser kit, birth combs, pregnancy ball, sky projector, lights etc.

  • Option to add on more postnatal support (you can read more here about postnatal support)

The Complete Package

£1,750

This is my bigger package which includes all of the above plus additional antenatal sessions to include my hypnnothing basics course and an additional postnatal visit.

  • 4 X antenatal sessions to help prepare and plan your birth and learn hypnobirthing

  • 24/7 on call ten days ahead of your estimated due date.

  • Virtual support throughout your pregnancy

  • In person birth support wherever you plan to give birth

  • Help planning for the postpartum period

  • 2 X postnatal visits including birth debrief/reflection session

  • Virtual support throughout your postnatal period for up to 6 weeks post birth

  • Access to my resource area, workshops and books.

  • TENs and Birth pool should you wish to use one.

  • Access to my doula kit including my aromatherapy diffuser kit, birth combs, pregnancy ball, sky projector, lights etc.

Postnatal Support Only

I also offer postnatal only doula support for families who are looking for support after birth only. You can find out more about my postnatal offerings here.

A woman with long hair leaning over an inflatable pool with string lights inside, indoors near a window with blinds.

I am a mother, wife, friend, doula…

I’m Kerry, the face behind Barefaced Birth. I support families through pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period with a calm, compassionate, and evidence-based approach.

My passion is to support you to feel confident, informed, and empowered knowing you are being fully supported and listened to throughout your journey to meeting your baby.

I aim to create a safe, supportive and calm birth environment for your baby to be born in and I love to go above and beyond to help you and your partner to feel prepared for birth, whatever path it takes.

Shared Care Support

Shared Care Doula Support Nottingham
Black and white photo of a woman with long wavy hair and glasses, sitting in front of a window with blinds.

I also work with the lovely Amy over at twelvemoons to offer shared care doula support. We have been working together now for a few years supporting clients together. We are borth birth nerds, both love supporting births and both love working together!

Shared care support means you get the two doulas with two sets of experience, knowledge and care to support you throughout.