Graceful, Compassionate Care
Welcome to CaliSis Doulas
There is a saying that “…the hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world.” We want to make sure that the hand rocking the cradle is healthy emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually. Centuries ago women within a community rallied around an expectant mother and came to her aid not only during the birth, but remained supportive as the mother recovered – what we call postpartum. The early midwife wasn’t considered a commodity but an essential part of every day life as women all around gave birth. While a Doula and a Midwife’s roles are slightly different, both are serious about the overall health of women – natural and adoptive. For more information on what a Doula is click here.
CaliSis Doulas is committed to making sure every aspect of a woman’s being is addressed, nurtured and celebrated. The training we receive is extensive and thorough, taking into consideration every possible nuance of childbirth is provided. Not only do we provide evidence-based classes and information, we focus on achieving positive maternal and infant outcomes so mother, baby and the family have tools to thrive. This allows them to enjoy the beauty of the miracle of birth.
Meet Karen, CaliSis Doulas Founder
The desire to become a Doula was birthed years ago and recently came to fruition as I embarked on certification through MaternityWise Institute. My training was comprehensive and covered prenatal, birth, postpartum and lactation support. We also discussed postpartum depression and many of the social, emotional and spiritual roadblocks that a woman may experience after a birth occurs . I have received my certification as a Labor Doula and Postpartum Doula. While I have training and personal experience in lactation education, my goal is to pursue additional certification to become a Certified Lactation Consultant.
Along with membership in MaternityWise Institute, I also have memberships in the National Black Doula Association (NBDA), Postpartum Support International (PSI), and the Perinatal Mental Health Alliance for People of Color (PMHAPC). To remain relevant on issues concerning women children and families, I also have associations and relationship with various faith-based and non-profit organizations within the Riverside, San Bernardino and surrounding Counties.
I will always keep learning!
My most recent training has been in Infant Sleep Patterns so I can help parents teach their new one how to sleep and reduce the wear and tear on the family, especially mom. A sleep-deprived family is a stressed and potentially non-functioning family and baby will not thrive in that environment.
I am an advocate/supporter for “Count the Kicks,” an organization committed to reducing the disparities among women of color on the occurrence of stillbirths. Regardless of education or income, black women/women of color, are more than 50% likely to have a stillbirth than their white counterparts. We must work to reduce this ratio and deliver our babies to grow up healthy and strong to live their purpose.
Why ‘CaliSis’?
Our founder has an affinity for butterflies – it’s also the nickname her friends call her! That being so, she knew she wanted to reference them in the name of her business. Butterflies represent the birthing process so beautifully.
She chose the California Sister butterfly for its beauty but also for the subtle nod to the fact that she’s from Southern California!