About MDC
The Montreal Doula Collective is a group of passionate doulas, enamoured with birthing, maternal and perinatal health. Our doulas provide personalized care and continuous support during the birth. We are safe-birth advocates and we strongly believe that each birthing parent has the right to individualized care and support that is aligned with their unique needs during the significant life experience of the birthing year. When these diverse needs are heard, acknowledged and advocated for, families are transformed for the better.
It has been demonstrated that the continued presence of a doula is likely to lead to a more holistic birth, with fewer interventions:
- 60% less epidurals
- 50% fewer c-sections
- 40% reduced use of forceps and suction cups
- 40% fewer chances of resorting to artificial hormonal induction
- 25% faster births
- 30% less pain medication
Many people face barriers to accessing holistic care within the current healthcare system. This can lead to them feeling unsupported and isolated while exacerbating the risks associated with birthing. Montreal Doula Collective’s mandate is to fill these gaps by providing full spectrum care and support. Through support, advocacy, education and collaboration, MDC offers free doula services to assist expectant parents going through difficult situations. Our services are thus accessible to any parent dealing with impacts of poverty, systemic discrimination based on race, mental or physical health, sexual identity or legal status, or who find themselves alone or without support during their pregnancy.
A special shout-out to Rivka Cymbalist, feminist doula and advocate of holistic births, who inspired and encouraged us during our beginnings in 2017.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21328263/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1526952303004288?via%3Dihub
Rosen, Patricia. “Supporting women in labor: analysis of different types of caregivers.” Journal of midwifery & women’s health vol. 49,1 (2004): 24-31. doi:10.1016/j.jmwh.2003.10.013
Scott, K D et al. “The obstetrical and postpartum benefits of continuous support during childbirth.” Journal of women’s health & gender-based medicine vol. 8,10 (1999): 1257-64. doi:10.1089/jwh.1.1999.8.1257