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 inclusive, evidence-based support that’s as grounded as it is empowering. Whether you’re preparing for birth or navigating the emotional spaghetti of the early days postpartum, I’ll meet you with warmth, straight-talking reassurance, and zero judgment.
My approach is practical, person-centred, and rooted in the belief that you deserve care that actually supports you – not just the system. That means space for your feelings, your choices, and your instincts (plus a birth partner who feels clued-up and genuinely useful – not just there to hold the snacks).
No fluff. No pressure. Just solid support, honest conversations, and someone in your corner 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
Your journey. My privilege (and my kettle’s always on).
It genuinely is a privilege to walk alongside you as you prepare for birth and early parenthood. I offer birth and postnatal doula support, plus private antenatal education, across Leicestershire and parts of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. Further afield, not to worry – I also offer a virtual doula support package.
Time and again, research shows that having a doula can lead to shorter labours, fewer interventions, and a more positive experience overall. That’s because doulas offer something we all deserve: continuity, compassion, and person-centred care.
I’m here to help you feel informed, calm, and like the person in charge of your own story – with space for your emotions, questions, and instincts every step of the way.
If you’d like to know more about any of these options or book your FREE 30–60 minute consultation, just get in touch!
Testimonials
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.
– Kelly
From the very beginning, Jess made me feel truly seen and supported. She has a rare ability to make you feel completely at ease – nothing ever felt too small or silly, and her care was always deeply personal.
Although my birth didn’t go as planned, Jess was our rock. She created a safe, calm bubble where I felt held, respected, and free to labour, and when difficult decisions needed to be made, she explained everything clearly and without pressure. Her presence turned an incredibly challenging experience into something manageable and grounded.
Jess stayed with us for 16 hours and didn’t leave until she knew both me and my baby were safe and well. Choosing a doula was the best decision we ever made – Jess will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
— Monique