The Gift of Presence: A Doula on Call at Christmas

For most, the Christmas season is a time of festivities, indulgence, and cherished moments with loved ones. But for doulas who are on call, the holidays are a little different.

While others settle into cosy traditions, doulas remain prepared to step away at a moment’s notice, ready to support a birthing family through one of life’s most transformative experiences.

Being on call over Christmas is an act of dedication, requiring flexibility and creativity to balance our personal celebrations with our professional responsibilities. It’s challenging, rewarding, and uniquely meaningful - a true testament to the heart of doula work.

Balancing Festivities and Being On-Call

Navigating the holiday season as a doula requires a thoughtful approach. You can’t completely relax into the festivities, but with some preparation and support, you can certainly still enjoy the season.

• Simplifying Holiday Plans: Many doulas adjust their Christmas traditions to accommodate their on-call status. Meals are kept simple or easy to reheat, and plans often include contingencies for a sudden departure.
• Travel Restrictions: Staying within your client’s on-call radius is vital, which might mean skipping trips to see family or declining invitations to far-off celebrations. Instead, many doulas create more intimate celebrations at home.
• Family Communication: It’s crucial to prepare loved ones for the realities of being on call. Explaining your commitment to your clients and involving family in back-up plans can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure everyone feels included.

Although it’s a balancing act, doulas find their own ways to honour both their families and their work, bringing a touch of Christmas spirit into everything they do. On our courses, we place great emphasis on the importance of clear communication - whether with clients or family members. Setting clear expectations and boundaries helps to create a smoother balance between doula work and home life, making it easier to navigate the demands of both worlds.

Challenges of Being On-Call During Christmas

While Christmas or New Year births can be magical, being on call during this busy season isn’t without its challenges:

• Missing Family Moments: Leaving in the middle of Christmas dinner or missing a family gathering can be bittersweet. It’s a reminder of the sacrifices doulas make to support others.
• Navigating Expectations: Balancing client needs with personal and family expectations requires clear communication and strong boundaries.
• Managing Holiday Stress: The demands of the season, combined with the unpredictability of birth-work, can make it especially important to prioritise self-care.

Despite these challenges, doulas often find that the rewards of their work - knowing they’ve made a difference - outweigh the difficulties.

Tips for Doulas Who Are On-Call Over Christmas

Here are some practical ways doulas can prepare for the holiday season while staying on call:

1. Pack a Festive Doula Bag: Include easy-to-eat snacks, a thermos of tea or coffee, and even a small Christmas decoration or two to brighten the birthing space. Who doesn’t love a bauble??
2. Stay Connected with Loved Ones: A quick call or text during a quiet moment can help you feel supported and included, even if you’re away from home. Don’t forget to make sure they save you some Christmas pud!
3. Communicate Clearly: Make sure clients know how to reach you, what your response times are, and what backup plans are in place if needed.
4. Celebrate Creatively: If you do find yourself missing Christmas Day, celebrate on another day. It’s the connection, not the calendar, that makes it special.
5. Practice Self-Care: Whether it’s a quiet morning walk or a short meditation, find small ways to recharge during this busy season.

Why Doulas Choose to Be On-Call at Christmas

For many doulas, being on call at Christmas is more than just a work commitment - it’s an act of love and service. Birth doesn’t pause for holidays, and the opportunity to support a family during such a profound moment is deeply fulfilling.

Every time a doula holds space for a birthing person or reassures nervous new parents, they’re making a difference. The work is demanding, but it’s also rewarding in ways that go beyond words.

Navigating Induction Pressures During the Holidays

One challenge that often arises for families during the festive season is the pressure to schedule inductions around Christmas. Hospitals may face staffing shortages, and healthcare providers might encourage families to plan births for convenience - whether it’s avoiding the holiday rush or ensuring staff availability.

As doulas, we know that while inductions are sometimes medically necessary, they should never be presented as the default option simply to fit around a calendar. Our role is to support families in making informed decisions that align with their needs and values.

For families facing this pressure, it’s important to:

• Ask Questions: Encourage them to explore why an induction is being recommended and whether it’s truly necessary.
• Understand Risks and Benefits: Help them access evidence-based information about the potential implications of induction, including how it might affect the birth experience.
• Support Their Choices: Whether they choose to proceed with induction or opt to wait, our role is to provide nonjudgmental support and ensure they feel confident in their decision.

The holidays can add complexity to these conversations, as families might also feel personal or social pressure to have their baby arrive “before Christmas” or “before the New Year.” By holding space and offering reassurance, doulas can help clients navigate these emotions and make decisions that prioritise their well-being and that of their baby.

Balancing the Holidays with Advocacy

Supporting families through the holiday season means more than being on call - it also means advocating for their autonomy and helping them navigate the unique pressures this time of year can bring. Whether it’s attending a festive birth or helping someone feel confident in saying “no” to an unnecessary induction, doulas are there to ensure that every birthing person feels respected, informed, and empowered.

A Season of Giving and Presence

Being on-call over Christmas is a unique experience that reflects the heart of doula work - being present, supportive, and adaptable in service of others. While it might mean missing a few holiday traditions, the chance to witness new life entering the world during such a meaningful season is a gift in itself.

As someone who has been on-call for many births during the Christmas period, I’ve experienced the unique joys and challenges this season brings. While it certainly required thoughtful planning, I’ve been lucky enough to never miss a Christmas Day with my family.

I decided to alternate the years I took bookings over Christmas, allowing me to fully enjoy uninterrupted family time some years while being available to support clients during others. Establishing clear boundaries and prioritising self-care has been essential to maintaining my happiness and longevity as a doula.

If you are an on-call doula this Christmas, know that your dedication and presence are a beautiful gift to the families you support. Whether you find yourself at a birth or surrounded by loved ones, take time to appreciate the impact you’re making. Birth-work is a powerful reminder of the wonder of new beginnings - a sentiment that perfectly reflects the magic of the Christmas season.

May your holidays be filled with connection, joy, and the knowledge that the work you do truly makes a difference. Merry Christmas!