Jess Parkins

The Rebel Sunflower…all births, all bodies, and all families.

Doula led birth preparation / education courses and birth & postnatal support based in Leicestershire. I am here to support YOU, to offer inclusive and badass support, to provide you with evidence-based resources, practical skills and the knowledge to make empowered decisions about your birth. To be a pillar of strength and emotional support, to hold space and validate your thoughts and feelings. I am here for you, your birth partner, and baby, to ensure you are at the heart of this amazing, beautiful, and unique journey.

Who I Am

A picture of Leicestershire Doula Jess posing

Jess the Doula

I’m Jess – on paper…mummy, wife, friend, sister, daughter. I can’t start the day without a strong cup of tea, and I collect Marmite memorabilia and sunglasses. My first child was born 9 years ago and if you’d have asked me back then how likely it was that I’d become a doula – I’d have told you – absolutely zero chance…

My Services

“Your journey, my honour…”
 
The above is a very short description as to how I view my offering to you.  Covering Leicestershire, parts of Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire…my in-person services range from birth & postnatal doula to a bespoke birth education and preparation course run from my cosy home studio.  
 
Time and again research has demonstrated the many benefits a doula offers as part of your journey – from reduction in the use of analgesia, reduced chance of instrumental birth to increased parental satisfaction with your birth experience…and many more!!  I absolutely consider it an honour to be a small part of your parenthood journey…to ensure you are heard, validated, and have the tools and support you need to make your experiences ‘yours’. 
Black and white photo of Doula Jess with her new born baby

What to know

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

A picture of Jess the Doula posing with her friend Kelly

Kelly – supported by Jess throughout her pregnancy and lifelong friend

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.

A picture of Doula Jess posing with her friend Kat

Kat – lifelong friend

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.

Lets connect