Today we’d like to introduce you to Latoya Rideau.
Hi Latoya, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was about 11 or so when I found myself so intrigued by one of my favorite shows on Discovery Health Channel about Birth & the lives and devotion of Midwives and OBGYNs. There was something about seeing what so many amazing birth stories and how the specific involvement of a good-hearted and well-trained person/team could make the difference in not just a birth but the empowerment of the birthing team they support. I found myself almost being called to be a part of the amazing world of birth and maternal support. It was when I was in high school that I gained opportunity and foresight on how I really wanted to support and provide aide to the birth community.
After I saw and supported a few close friends and family members during their pregnancies and thereafter, I found the energy of what made a Doula was what I was born to do. I found I’d naturally be the one running to massage, motivate, teach & even coach birthing persons through their labor and delivery whenever I had access. Being so interested in the way providers moved and their policies and procedures. Having people compliment me and praise my involvement in their birth showed me that I had found my place. I loved every bit of the process, especially more natural birthing techniques. Attending majority of family births and knowing that I slowly became a face of comfort to people as I grew into my role was what got me to the lead path today. I feel since elementary age, that I have even called and I am very much excited for all God has prepared for my journey! I am working consistently to complete all levels of Doula certification as well as Child Birth Education before continuing my aspirations of Professional Midwifery. I dream to open my own Birth center of my own.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Although my journey is nowhere near complete, I find myself highly grateful for everything I’ve experienced to this day. I am only at the beginning of what feels like my millionth reset. Along with the upsides and breakthroughs, I’ve found myself lost and misguided a few times. It’s crazy when you realize all of the different levels and positions it takes to make the birth community and the so many ways to help.
My first years out of high school, all I knew is I wanted to be a Midwife and help families not only with Delivery but even from conception and after birth. I had no clue on how to do so but I knew my end goal. Since I ventured into many leads to the goal, including years wasted on a nursing degree that I later decided didn’t appeal to my dreams of birth beyond the hospital. Since referred to Doula life by a friend, I’ve participated in small and quick to fail Doula certification programs before finding my way to DONA. From learning the fundamentals of business to how to face new issues and changing policies brought on by COVID-19, there’s always something to keep you on your toes. I will say that for every down set I’ve had, there has been greater breakthroughs, like finding amazing mentors to awesome inspirational people in birth groups Across the world. Amazing support system and new love for things in birth that I haven’t always paid attention to like VBACs.
As you know, we’re big fans of MaDoula Maternal Services. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I am a Birth/Labor doula in training as well as a certified Postpartum Doula providing care in Dallas & surrounding areas. I love working with families of all birth plans, whether hospital or home. I work with focus on helping birthing persons to a safe and successful birth. I assist in breastfeeding and pumping as well as scheduling. I teach families the importance and need of comfort measures and empowerment before labor to aide in the mindset of strength & capability to birthing families. If I could consult with every expecting family, I would invite them to hire a doula, not because it’s what I do but because it saves lives, time and even money for so many. Doulas benefit YOU!! My motto is to “Experience YOUR Birth” to remind families to embrace and face the miracle that pregnancy brings. It presses people to take control of their birth, including their planning and involvement in every possible choice and decision that goes into not only getting their baby home Healthily but themselves as well, especially in my own community. I want to remind families that no matter you lifestyle, income, provider or life choices, you deserve and have a chance to obtain a Doula. The birthing process starts with you but never has to feel like that’s all there is. Reach it! Ask the questions, get the HELP! We are here! 🙂
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
It took me a long time and a lot of inner growth to even understand the true context of that question. Happiness, where it comes from, who is in control of it? Life has taught me that happiness for me are the small things; family, my “children” (family) and my loved ones. A moment of gratitude & awareness of a blessing no matter how small. I am happy when I see my dreams unfold and I became more of who I saw myself to be years ago. Happiness for me comes from a much-needed compliment from another or even the acknowledgment of my efforts. Happiness for me is a good massage and a day of completed errands and adventure. Helping others and animals in need; you know, typical things that make us feel good. A good hug or gift from a loved one… I could go on and on.
Pricing:
- LaborOnly: $300 (37 wk On-Call)
- Labor Doula Package: $650
- Postpartum Hourly: $16/hr (4hr sessions avail.)
- Postpartum Doula Package: $200/ week /20 hrs per week
Contact Info:
- Email: Latoyarideauhorn@gmail.com
- Instagram: MadoulaDallas
- Facebook: MaDoula Maternal Services
Image Credits
Latoya Rideau Jerome Johnson Keo Anderson
