
Whiptail Doula
Full Spectrum Doula serving Northern New Mexico
Welcome, I’m so glad you’re here!
I'm a full-spectrum doula offering trauma-informed care through all reproductive experiences. My approach is inclusive, evidence based, and personalized to support you every step of the way.
Hi , I’m Ren
I am a queer full-spectrum doula based in Santa Fe, on the ancestral lands of the Tewa people, O'Ga P'Ogeh. I serve Northern New Mexico, including Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and the surrounding areas. My care is trauma-informed and encompasses all aspects of the reproductive journey.
I believe our reproductive experiences are some of the most profound and transformative moments in life, shaping us in ways we carry forever, and having compassionate, conscientious support can make an enormous difference in the journey.
I approach my work with a deep commitment to reproductive justice, as well as gender-affirming, sex-positive, and inclusive practices. My goal is to help you to make informed, empowered decisions about your family, body, and reproductive journey. I am here to offer emotional, physical, and advocacy support, walking with you through every step.
Education and Trainings
Certified Birth Doula, DONA
Certified Lactation Counselor, Center for Breastfeeding Healthy Children Project
Spinning Babies Foundational Workshop, Spinning Babies
Legal and Human Rights in Childbirth, Birth Monopoly
UNM Birth Companion, UNM
UNM Doula Traineeship, UNM
Certified Stillbirth and Bereavement Doula StillBirthday
Certified Abortion Doula, Colorado Doula Project
Adult and Child CPR, American Red Cross
Psychological First Aid National Child Traumatic Stress Network
My Values
Reproductive Justice
Sister Song defines Reproductive Justice as “the human right to maintain personal bodily autonomy, have children, not have children, and parent the children we have in safe and sustainable communities.” Following their example, I believe you have the fundamental human right to choose if when and how you have children, and to parent those children safely.
Evidence Based
I believe you deserve care that is safe, respectful, and backed by evidence. I keep up to date on the research in birth, and can help you navigate your choices based on the latest evidence.
Body Sovereignty
I believe that you as an individual should have full control over your own body. I want to make sure you have all the information you need to make informed choices for yourself.
Anti Racist
Reproductive healthcare injustices disproportionately harm Black and Brown communities. I am dedicated to examining my own complicity in these systems and actively advocating for my clients.
Queer Affirming and Sex Positive
I believe you have the right to your sexual identity, gender identity, and gender expression. I will provide care that honors your unique reproductive needs. I believe a sex and body positive approach that moves away from stigma, shame and fear is the best way to support your reproductive journey.
Trauma Informed
I incorporate an understanding of trauma in the care I provide to promote a supportive environment through safety, trust, and collaboration in your reproductive journey.
FAQs
-
A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to their client. Doula care is evidence based, and has been shown to have many positive impacts, including decreased risk of c- section, decrease in the use of medications for pain relief, and shorter labors. You can read more about the evidence on doulas here.
-
A doula is a trained companion who provides emotional, physical, and informational support to the person giving birth, and can offer comfort measures, guidance, and continuous presence.
A midwife is a a health professional who provides medical care to you and your baby. Different kinds of midwives include CNM's (Certified Nurse Midwives) and CPM's (Certified Practical Midwives).
-
Many families worry that hiring a doula might leave the partner feeling sidelined. In reality, the doula’s role is to enhance the support that both the birthing person and their partner receive. Doulas are there to guide, not replace.
Your partner knows your emotional needs and preferences better than anyone. The doula works alongside them, offering suggestions for how they can best support you during labor. Whether it's reminding them to take breaks, offering tips for comfort measures, or simply being there as another set of hands, a doula helps partners feel more confident and engaged during the birth. After all, birth is a powerful, transformative experience for both parents, and a doula ensures that the partner’s experience is supported as well.
-
Yes, many people find these situations to be the ones where a doula is the most helpful. During an epidural, a doula can help you find positions for pushing. Many hospitals allow doulas to hold your hand and go with you to the OR during your C-section. Doulas can help you work through your options during an induction. Doulas are there to support you, whatever your journey looks like.
-
A bereavement doula provides the same physical, emotional, and advocacy support as a birth doula, while also supporting in loss and grief. A bereavement doula can help you prior to, during, and after the birth of a baby who has been miscarried, stillborn, or is not expected to live. A bereavement doula can help you say hello to your baby, and say farewell.
-
An abortion doula provides emotional, physical, and information support before, during, and after your surgical or medication abortion. Some clinics will allow a doula to attend your abortion with you, where they can offer comfort during the procedure. Doulas bring continuous presence and support.
Get in Touch
If you are interested in my services, please send me a message and I will reach out over email for scheduling options.