Embracing Cultural Beliefs in Birth: A Seattle Doula's Approach
As a Seattle-based doula with a BA degree in Human Rights from the University of Washington, I bring a unique perspective and deep respect for cultural traditions in birth and postpartum care. My Russian heritage has gifted me a strong sense of family and community support, values that I cherish and aim to reflect in my doula practice. I understand how deeply cultural beliefs can shape a birthing experience, and I am passionate about finding a personalized approach that aligns with each family's traditions.
In this blog, I’ll share how different cultural practices—from Chinese "Zuo Yue Zi" and Indian "Seemantham" ceremonies to Russian postpartum customs and American holistic preferences—can beautifully enrich the journey of childbirth. At the heart of my work is a commitment to honor each family’s unique background, providing an inclusive, empowering, and respectful environment. If you’re searching for a Birth Doula who will support and respect your cultural practices, I’d love to partner with you to create a meaningful, culturally attuned birth experience.
Chinese Traditions: The Significance of “Zuo Yue Zi”
In Chinese culture, the practice of “Zuo Yue Zi” or “sitting the month” is an ancient postpartum tradition. It emphasizes rest, nutrition, and bonding for 30 days post-birth, allowing the mother to recover fully. During this time, the mother consumes warming foods like chicken soup and herbal teas believed to restore energy and balance. Family and community play a significant role, helping with household chores and providing emotional support. Massage care in labor and postpartum for both, mom and baby, is huge for Chinese families, as a doula, I love incorporating aspects of massage, encouraging rest and preparing nourishing meals to help mothers recover. I love being connected to local Chinese Birth Professionals in Seattle for specific referrals and continued education. One of my favorites is Heng Ma with Body en Motion.
Indian Birth Customs: The Power of Spiritual Preparation
Indian culture has numerous sacred rituals surrounding birth, often influenced by Hindu traditions. Many families incorporate rituals such as the “Seemantham,” a baby shower-like ceremony that blesses the mother and unborn child with prayers and gifts. During the postpartum period, new mothers in Indian culture typically receive a “Japa maid,” or postpartum helper, who assists with care, massage, and nutritious meals rich in ghee and spices. Integrating aspects like massage and warm foods can enhance postpartum recovery, providing healing and comfort.
As a Doula in Seattle, I proudly serve many Indian families and continuously learn about their care-preferences, culture and nutrition. Indian mothers have a high desire for safety in Birth and re-assuring them and creating a safe Birth plan, while walking with them every step of the way is one of my favorite ways to serve these families.
Jewish Birth Practices: Welcoming a New Life with Tradition
In Jewish culture, childbirth is considered a blessed event, and the welcoming of a newborn involves several significant customs. For instance, on the eighth day for a boy, families hold a “bris” or circumcision ceremony, celebrating with close family and friends. Jewish tradition also includes “kavod habriyot,” the principle of respecting life, which extends to the mother and child. Postpartum, many Jewish families observe a period of support, where extended family assists the new parents. Honoring these practices is integral to fostering a spiritually fulfilling experience for Jewish families.
Jewish families are superstitious, it is a common practice for them not to want to bring into the house any baby items and wait until the baby’s arrival to buy items such as clothes, etc. My own father is of a Jewish descend and when chatting with my mother, she confirmed that they only bought absolute necessities to prepare for my arrival and hosted a party, received gifts and purchased the rest of the items after my birth.
Russian Beliefs: The Warmth of Community Support
Russian birthing customs often revolve around community and family support. Traditionally, Russian mothers may follow a period of rest and recovery, receiving close assistance from female relatives. Additionally, Russian folklore emphasizes the power of positive words and blessings around a newborn to ward off negativity. As a doula, embracing practices like minimizing stress and creating a loving atmosphere for Russian families brings an added layer of comfort and respect to their birthing experience. I fluently speak Russian and often able to interpret and connect with families in their native language.
It is common for Russian grandmothers to control new mothers diet and clothing, making sure they are fed and warm, but not eating anything that may potentially cause baby to have excess gas or stomach upset. Russian mothers are known to eat very bland food after their deliveries, which is so different from other cultures, who embrace spices and herbs heavily during that time.
American Birth Preferences: Individualized and Empowering Experiences
In the U.S., birth preferences vary widely, with many families choosing customized birthing plans to reflect their values. American families often incorporate a blend of natural and medical approaches, and doula support is increasingly popular. As a doula in Washington, I find that American families appreciate evidence-based education and options such as birthing pools, aromatherapy, and personalized postpartum care. Some American mothers choose to birth outside of the hospital, and prefer midwifery style of care. Supporting American families means respecting their autonomy, providing knowledge, and creating an environment that aligns with their personal birth philosophy. Many Americans celebrate their freedom and I definitely see that reflected in their Birthing and Postpartum Journey.
Black Birth Culture: Honoring Legacy and Community Care
For Black families, birthing and postpartum traditions often emphasize the importance of community and honoring the legacy of family members who came before. Historically, Black women faced significant challenges within the healthcare system, so reclaiming traditional birth practices and receiving culturally competent care has become a vital part of many Black families’ journeys. From using ancestral herbs to celebrating birth with loved ones, these practices offer not only physical but also emotional and spiritual support. As a doula, understanding and respecting these traditions is essential for building trust and providing the advocacy that many Black families seek. In Seattle, we have a large community of Black Birth Workers and I love that there is a special, supportive and understanding sisterhood where Black mothers can turn to when choosing their Birth Team, like Sista Midwife Directory.
Whether you’re seeking support in a natural birth or tailored postpartum care, my goal is to offer a compassionate and individualized approach that celebrates your family’s roots. I love serving each and every family, regardless of their cultural background. I strongly believe, that each family is unique and deserves care tailored directly to their needs and preferences. I would love to that you on a Pregnancy and Birth Journey that honors and reflects of your values, background, and vision.
With Love, Doula Dasha