Why I've Chosen to Step Away From Doula Work After 15 Years
For fifteen years, I worked as a doula, walking beside women and families in one of the most vulnerable, powerful moments of their lives. It shaped me, stretched me, and gave me memories I’ll always hold close. But at the start of this year, I made the decision to stop offering doula services. It wasn’t a quick choice. It came after months of reflection, and honestly, years of feeling the pull in another direction. But now it's time!
Here’s why.
The Emotional Intensity
Birth is already a high-energy space. Add to that the physical demands of supporting a woman for hours... sometimes days, and it becomes clear how draining it can be.
After each birth, I found myself needing days, sometimes even weeks, to recover. And while I was trying to rest and refill my cup, my other work as a photographer was waiting for me. Galleries to edit, sessions to prepare for, deadlines to meet. The last thing you want after a 48-hour birth with little to no sleep is to sit down for hours at a screen editing photographs.
It wasn’t sustainable anymore.
The Family Impact
Doula work doesn’t happen on a neat schedule. You can be gone for days at a time. My last birth was a perfect example. Early labour lasted six days, and I was offering full physical and emotional support throughout. In those final two and a half days, none of us... not me, not the partner, not even the mother had slept. Everyone was completely drained. We did our very best, but at some point, you can’t pour from an empty cup. That’s the reality of doula work. It’s unpredictable. Birth can start and stop. It can change direction in an instant. Even after years of experience, there are always situations that catch you by surprise. As much as I loved being there for families, the sacrifice on my own family and my energy became too heavy.
A New Chapter: Photography
This decision became part of my New Year’s resolution. It wasn’t something I took lightly, but deep down I knew it was time.
I’ll still support friends and family in more relaxed settings, but professionally, my heart and energy are now fully devoted to what I love most... birth, maternity, and newborn photography.
And I know what you might be thinking: But Deborah, didn’t you say birth was emotionally draining?
Yes... as a doula. As a photographer, it’s a completely different kind of presence. I don’t carry the emotional and physical needs of a labouring mother on my shoulders. I show up with my camera, tuned into the light, the angles, the story unfolding in front of me. I’m buzzing with excitement to capture that first cry or those tender postpartum moments.
It can still mean long hours, and yes, I’m still on-call. But it’s different. Instead of carrying someone else’s intensity, I get to channel my creativity. I come home tired but fulfilled, not depleted.
Looking Ahead
Stepping away from doula work after 15 years is not easy. But I know it was the right decision. It allows me to protect my energy, be more present for my family, and pour myself fully into the work that lights me up. Photography gives me the best of both worlds: I still get to be there for families in their most sacred moments, but in a way that’s sustainable for me ...and allows me to create something timeless for them to hold onto forever.
So this is my farewell to doula work, a role that shaped me for 15 years. I’ll carry the lessons and love with me always, even as I step fully into the next chapter of supporting families through photography. If you’re looking for maternity, newborn, or birth photography in London, Bromley, or Beckenham, I’d love to capture your story.
Lots of Love,
Deborah xxx
