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Kimberly Reine,
Montreal Doula
Planning on giving birth with a doula in Montreal? I am passionate about pregnancy and birth. When I became pregnant for the first time, I voraciously devoured every birth book in the library. It was like rediscovering a dormant interest in human reproduction that had remained buried since high school biology, when I had simply chalked it up to raging hormones. I followed the growth of the baby week by week, fascinated. But I discovered that when it actually came to the birth itself, the books contained a lot of conflicting information.
What I wanted was someone with practical experience to provide concrete advice. Someone to guide me towards the choices about giving birth in Montreal that would work for ME during this transformative time. Experiences that you have during pregnancy and birth stay with you for life and become a part of your personal narrative. A doula can support you and clarify the important options that are available as you embark on life’s greatest adventure!
Training and experience
I certified with Montreal Birth Companions, founded by Rivka Cymbalist. With MBC I completed a multi-level birth doula training and several postpartum courses taught by experts in their fields. I have supported families throughout greater Montreal both as a doula and as a breastfeeding peer counsellor. Having lived in Montreal for most of my adult life, I also understand how the health system works and am bilingual. I am always looking to expand my knowledge and therefore I regularly take courses and workshops in a variety of birth related subjects. My latest interest is in birth photography and I started photographing births a few years ago.
My own personal adventures in birth and breastfeeding involved two preemies, one emergency cesarian section and one VBAC, lots of pumping, and learning how to breastfeed in the NICU. I combine these experiences with the experience of being a doula supporting many people in countless other birth scenarios. All of this has prepared me to navigate birth with confidence – confidence that I hope to instil in you and your partner. You can also read more about me in my profile on Doula Match.
Birth Philosophy
I believe that every birthing person, every baby and every birth is unique and special. My goal is to encourage and empower you to have the birth that you want, whatever your birth plan entails. I believe that knowledge is power, so I like to go over what you can expect during pregnancy, labour and immediate postpartum in our prenatal sessions. I like to dedicate one whole session to breastfeeding. Many parents plan to learn about breastfeeding “when the time comes”, but considering that it is normal to breastfeed within 15 minutes of the birth, when you are exhausted and not receptive to learning, I like to give you a head start. As a postpartum doula I help you adjust to your new normal by ensuring that you are recovering well and staying nourished, and by being present to help with any breastfeeding hiccups that may arise.