What’s Inside My Doula Bag
One of the most common questions I get as a birth doula is:
“What do you bring with you to a birth?”
My doula bag isn’t a secret — it is intentional. Every item inside is there to support comfort, confidence, calm, and connection during labor. While no two births are ever the same, these tools allow me to adapt to whatever unfolds and support each family in a grounded, responsive way.
Here’s a look inside my doula bag — and how each item supports the birthing experience.
Comfort & Pain-Relief Tools
These are often the most-used items during labor.
• Roller ball
Perfect for relieving back labor, hip pressure, and muscle tension. Great to help massage the area.
• Rebozo scarf
Used for belly sifting, hip releases, gentle movement, and relaxation — especially helpful in early and active labor.
• Essential oils (used thoughtfully and with consent)
Scents like lavender or peppermint can support relaxation, grounding, or nausea relief.
• Counterpressure tools
My hands are my main tools, but having supportive options makes long labors more sustainable.
Movement & Positioning Support
Movement is one of the most powerful tools in labor.
• Positioning guides & reminders
Helpful for rotating through labor positions that promote progress and comfort.
Breath, Focus & Emotional Support
Labor is as emotional as it is physical.
• Affirmation cards or gentle reminders
Used to help refocus during intense moments and encourage confidence.
• Visualization prompts & grounding techniques
Helpful when labor becomes overwhelming or unpredictable.
• Calm presence
Not something that fits in a bag — but one of the most important things I bring.
Postpartum & Early Feeding Support
Support doesn’t end when the baby arrives.
• Breastfeeding support tools
Hands-on guidance, positioning help, and reassurance in those first moments.
• Peri-care reminders & comfort tips
Gentle guidance for immediate postpartum comfort.
• Snacks & hydration reminders
Often overlooked but essential after birth.
Practical & Behind-the-Scenes Essentials
These items keep everything running smoothly.
• Notebook or phone notes
For timing contractions, remembering preferences, or documenting special moments.
• Extra hair ties, lip balm, tissues
The small comforts that make a big difference.
• Snacks
It is very important to keep eating during labor if you are not restricted. I typically bring applesauce, granola bars, sour candies, instant coffee, fruit strips, etc.
The Most Important Things I Bring
While my doula bag is full of helpful tools, the most important things don’t take up space:
Continuous, nonjudgmental support
Advocacy and informed guidance
Emotional reassurance
Respect for your choices
A calm, steady presence
No matter what your birth looks like — medicated or unmedicated, long or short, planned or unexpected — my role is to support you.
Final Thoughts
Every doula’s tools look a little different, just like every birth. What matters most isn’t what’s inside the bag — it’s how each tool is used with intention, experience, and care.
