What’s in My Doula Bag? (Hint: It’s Not About the Stuff)
- Brittany Baker
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
When people think about doulas, they often imagine a bag full of tricks. Magic tools that make birth easier. But the truth? My bag is packed with care, not just stuff. Here’s a look inside and what it really means for the families I support.
Comfort for You
Sometimes, a little extra comfort can make all the difference. That’s why I keep a few small but mighty items on hand:
A comb (a simple but effective pain-coping tool)
Tennis ball (perfect for back pressure relief)
Essential oils (if you love them, they’re here, if not, no worries!)
Bluetooth speaker (for music, guided mindfulness, or white noise)
Battery-operated candles (soft lighting can change the whole feel of the room)
Deck of cards & nail polish (because sometimes, waiting for labor to progress calls for a little distraction)
Low-scent lotion for gentle hand, leg, or foot rubs (if you’d like, sometimes a little touch can go a long way)
Support for Me, So I Can Show Up for You
A well-prepared doula takes care of themselves, too. Birth work can mean long hours, unexpected twists, and a lot of physical and emotional energy. In my bag, you’ll also find:
Charger & headphones (staying charged means staying available)
Compression socks & slide-on shoes (comfort is key for long hours on my feet)
A change of scrubs (birth is unpredictable)
Low-scent snacks & electrolyte packets (keeping my energy up without overpowering your space)
Gum, earplugs, eye mask (self-care moments between contractions matter)
Chapstick (hospital air is dry)
My badge & cash for vending machines (sometimes the hospital cafeteria is closed, and a granola bar won’t cut it)
A book (for those rare moments of downtime)
And Guess What? The Hospital Already Has a Lot of Great Tools
Many of the things doulas are known for using, like a peanut ball, hot and cold packs, a birth ball, a squat bar, and even a diffuser, are already available at most hospitals or birth centers. My job isn’t about bringing more things into the room. It’s about knowing how to use the tools that are there, reading the room, and making sure you feel seen, heard, and supported.
It’s Never About the Bag
At the end of the day, a doula’s most important tool isn’t in any bag. It’s our presence, our experience, and our ability to adapt to whatever birth brings. Whether I use everything in my bag or nothing at all, my focus is on you. Your needs, your comfort, and your choices.
Want to learn more about what having a doula really means? Lets find a time to connect!
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