Mary and Marissa, a Montgomery County couple, praise their queer doula for making a huge difference during the birth of their daughter, writes Stephanie Stahl for CBS News Philadelphia.
Queer doulas have been gaining recognition in recent years for the inclusive care they provide to LGBTQ+ individuals and couples throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
Mary and Marissa’s youngest daughter entered the world with support from doula Elizabeth Weinstein.
“I identify as queer, and so I really love being able to support other queer families in the community,” said Weinstein.
The couple said it was important to them that their doula had an LGBTQ+ perspective and sensitivity.
“When you’re in those high moments of already stress and anxiety, it’s to be able to be surrounded by people who you know, understand, don’t question it, without a doubt supportive, is crucial,” said Mary.
Mary is the one who carried the couple’s last two babies, while Marissa gave birth to their first daughter.
“I think it’s such an intimate experience that I needed to know that we were with somebody who wasn’t going to call me dad,” said Marissa.
To read more about how Elizabeth Weinstein is changing the birthing experience for queer families and why Mary and Marissa say they wouldn’t do it any other way—head to the full story on CBS News Philadelphia.
