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.
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.
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.