What's inside a doula's labor bag?

 
People often ask me what a doula is, or they assume that a doula is something like a midwife or a midwife assistant. I always say that a doula is there for emotional, physical, and educational support of the mother and does NOT do anything medical.  Though, sometimes the best way to explain to someone what a doula does is to show them my labor bag! Everything in this bag helps me to do what I do best. But my favorite tools of all are my mind, my voice, and my hands.

I use a large canvas diaper bag as my labor bag. Inside of this bag is my birth ball and foot air pump, my robozo scarf, my rice sock for heat and cool therapy, herbal lozenges, bottled water, wet wipes, disposable toothbrushes, lip balm, granola bars, a welcome folder with business cards, some cash, a thank you note for the nurses, and a change of clothes for me.  I also like to bring along my camera if it is previously consented by my client.
 



Resources:
 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6H19uMNDuA
http://www.birthingnaturally.net/cn/tool/rebozo.html
http://www.beaumont.edu/womens-health/obstetrics/labor-delivery/staying-comfortable/hot-cold-therapy/