Childbirth Historian, Doula

Doula/

Medieval

Historian

I am a PhD student at the University of Winchester and a full-spectrum doula providing support, resources, and fellowship for women and their families.

This site is meant to be a hub for scholars, mothers, and curious minds alike. It shares my support offerings alongside a monthly column featuring accessible writing rooted in history, research, and lived experience. Like birth and postpartum support, I believe reproductive knowledge shouldn’t be locked behind institutions or paywalls.

Basic, intimate care in the first weeks after birth shouldn’t cost an arm or a leg. Everyone deserves doula support, regardless of income. While I bring deep care and intention to my work, I never want money to be the reason someone goes without support.

That’s why I offer a pay-what-you-can model, along with flexible options like payment plans, bartering, or labor trades. This might look like exchanging meals, art, skills, services, or whatever feels fair and aligned for both of us. I’ve had the joy of trading support for things like acupuncture treatments, yoga classes, and more. I think there's something really magical about mutual exchange, especially between fellow care providers!

  • "Marissa was an absolute pleasure to work with. She is a really calming and supportive person to invite in your birth space. She was always available when I needed her. She definitely went above and beyond for myself and my family. From an initial zoom meeting, joining me at one of my doctor’s appointments, and the many visits to my home and the hospital throughout my labour she was there when I needed her. I would recommend her over and over again."

    Elizabeth P.

  • "Marissa was such a blessing! She made my postpartum experience so much easier. I utilized her services for overnight newborn care and she was absolutely amazing with my daughter. I woke up to a fed and changed baby, and laundry and dishes done every day. It was the best decision for our family so I could focus on healing! We love Marissa you will too!"

    Morgan W.

  • "Marissa did an amazing job listening to my patient's desires and supporting her and her partner as their decisions changed throughout the day. It was such a pleasure!"

    - Nurse Ana

  • “It was such a blessing to know that we could absolutely count on Marissa to be our rock during this whole process.”

    Kelly P.

  • "Marissa was amazing, I can't recommend her enough! She was so well organized, compassionate, and knowledgeable. She knew what we needed without us even telling her. She far exceeded my expectations for a doula and we feel grateful to have met her."

    - Adrienne A.

  • "I've been working with ​Marissa throughout my pregnancy journey and she has been nothing but a light for our family during this season of change. She is so insightful and has such a caring touch. Can't recommend her enough for any mamas-to-be!"

    Lindsay B.

  • "Would highly recommend Marissa to any birthing mother!"

    - Alison B