Roxanne Waite
Certified Birth Doula
Licensed Acupuncturist
Reflexologist
rootedwellness@shaw.ca
778-233-9438

Pregnant women have always intrigued me, even as a teenager I drew pregnant bellies in art class. Incredible are the changes that women go through when expecting children.

My first passion was Traditional Chinese Medicine and alternative therapies including reflexology for health and wellness. My commitment to TCM led me through five years of full time training, as well as traveling to pursue studies in China and becoming a licensed acupuncturist. I always knew I wanted to focus my work in the world of obstetrics and postpartum health.

While going to college I was very fortunate to attend a friend’s birth. This was a successful VBAC (vaginal birth after caesarean), amazingly only twelve months after her first child. Sharing this memorable time helped prepare me for the road ahead.

Looking back at this life changing experience, I was a doula in training. I supported my friend physically, emotionally and felt like my supportive role-played a small part in their success story.

The next birth I attended, was the birth of my sister’s first son Kai. It was a home birth, one of the most amazing experiences I have ever been a part of. I learned that night what the word support meant. I realized it was very different being the sister than it was the doula.

Over time I heard many wonderful birth stories from my sister, “doulamama” Sarah. With her encouragement I attended the next Douglas College doula training. I was becoming a certified birth doula.

While working on establishing my acupuncture career I realized how well both experiences would compliment each other. The last two and a half years have been very busy attending many births. At hospitals, homes, first and second babies, with the take action Dads or the nervous ones.

I appreciate each and every birth because it is always unique and gives me the opportunity to learn something new each and every time. I am there to encourage women to have the birth experience that is right for them, whatever that setting may be.

Being a doula is very rewarding and I feel privileged to be invited into one of the most personal and memorable times couples share. Creating a “birth team” with soon to be parents and caregivers is an important part in the process of making labouring women feel supported.

Feeling supported, safe, informed and empowered are priceless tools for women embarking on one of the most rewarding and difficult journeys in their lives so far. When doulas hit it off with their clients it can be a close working relationship or those connections can stay strong throughout a lifetime. I believe women can achieve the extraordinary every day, especially when delivering their children.

If you would like any further information about my services or me please feel free to contact me at rootedwellness@shaw.ca