Jess Parkins
The Rebel Sunflower…all births, all bodies, and all families.
Doula-led birth preparation and education courses, plus birth & postnatal support based in Loughborough, Leicestershire.
I’m here to offer you inclusive, evidence-based care that’s as practical as it is empowering. Whether you’re preparing for birth or navigating those early days postpartum, I’m dedicated to giving you the support and knowledge to make decisions that feel right for you. With a focus on emotional support, strength, and a space where your feelings are always valid, I’m here for you, your birth partner, and your baby—making sure you’re at the heart of this beautiful, life-changing journey. I take pride in the work I do and am committed to helping you feel truly prepared and supported every step of the way.
Who I Am
Jess the Doula
I’m Jess – on paper, I’m a mummy, wife, friend, sister, daughter. But in my downtime, you’ll find me sipping a strong cup of tea, collecting Marmite memorabilia, and curating my ever-growing sunglasses collection. Nine years ago, if you’d have asked me if I’d ever become a doula, I would have said: “Absolutely no chance…”
My Services
It genuinely is an honour to be a part of your parenthood journey. Covering Leicestershire, parts of Derbyshire, and Nottinghamshire, my services include birth and postnatal doula support, as well as bespoke birth education and preparation courses.
Time and again, research shows the many benefits a doula can bring to your experience—everything from reduced use of analgesia to lower chances of an instrumental birth and increased parental satisfaction. I’m here to ensure you feel heard, validated, and empowered with the tools and support to make your birth experience truly yours.
Resources
Tailor Made:
“Wherever you choose to birth, it’s incredibly helpful to have a think about how you might like to alter the environment to suit you. Follow the link for hints & tips.”
Site-seeing Adventures:
“A super concise list of websites related to all things pregnancy and birth. A fab starting point for questions and queries.”
Affirmation Station Baby:
“Some people love them, others not so much – but there is no doubt that birth affirmations can play an integral role in supporting that positive mindset. Click the link for a printable list. “
Testimonials
Kelly
Jess was a great support to me throughout my pregnancy and beyond. She is passionate about having a positive birthing experience and helped me by passing on some of her vast knowledge (along with book/podcast recommendations to help even further) so that I felt confident and able leading up to the birth. Jess was always willing to chat and talk through any concerns I had, no matter how silly or small I considered them to be. Having her friendship and support was, and still is, a great comfort – everyone deserves someone like Jess in their lives.
Kat
I have known Jess for 19 years, having initially lived together for 3 years and continued a great friendship since. Jess’s passion for helping others has been evident throughout our friendship; whether it’s lending a listening ear, offering to help, or providing thoughtful advice, she has consistently demonstrated her genuine care and concern for those around her. Jess has a unique ability to make people feel heard, valued, and supported, which are crucial attributes for anyone in the caregiving profession.
Jess is a person of immense integrity, compassion, and dedication and has a natural ability to empathise with others. Drawing upon her first birth, I know how passionate Jess is to do all she can to advocate for women and provide critical support thought their perinatal period, one of the most meaningful times in their lives.
Jess approaches every responsibility with a strong sense of duty and meticulous attention to detail. Her ability to stay calm under pressure and think critically ensures that she can handle any situation with grace and efficiency.
I have no doubt at all that Jess will make a significant positive impact of the lives of the families she supports.