Jenn Carlson - Birth & Postpartum Doula

About Jenn

Hey there! I'm Jenn Carlson, your friendly neighborhood doula! I call Springfield, VA home, where I live with my husband, Eddie—a rock musician who moonlights as a film critic. (Or maybe it’s the other way around? Either way, there's a lot of passionate reviews in my house!). I spent over two decades as an IT pro and a stage manager before diving headfirst into my most exciting production: raising two amazing daughters. Both of their births were high-drama—think less "rom-com" and more "medical thriller." But those experiences sparked a fire in me to help other women feel empowered during labor, and thus began my journey as a doula. Since 2013, I've been lucky enough to attend over 700 births and help nearly 300 new moms recover through the magical art of placenta encapsulation (yes, it’s a thing and it’s awesome). I'm a CBI and DONA Trained, Madriella Certified Birth and Postpartum Doula, a Childbirth Educator, an AHA Infant and Pediatric First Aid and CPR instructor, a certified Reiki practitioner, and a placenta encapsulation specialist. Whew, that’s a mouthful! My goal? To be whatever my clients need. Natural-minded or more into the medical approach, I’m here to make sure you have the birth experience you want—with all the options on the table. My definition of a successful birth? One where the mom feels respected, empowered, and ready to write her own birth story, no matter how her baby arrives. Because education is key, I teach breastfeeding, infant CPR, newborn care, and childbirth classes. I've got experience with Bradley and Hypnobirthing techniques, and I bring along my trusty rebozo and TENS unit to help families through labor. I also have special training to support moms who have experienced trauma or loss, and a big, soft spot for high-risk mothers like me who need to know they have options. So whether you’re looking for a bit of guidance, a lot of support, or just someone to laugh with while you figure it all out—I’m here for you!

Birth & Postpartum Doula packages and pricing

Push it Real Good: The Guide to Rockin' Your Birth

Welcome to "Push it Real Good," the childbirth class with a groove! This is a rockin' celebration of bringing new life into the world. Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned pro, we believe that childbirth should be as empowering and joyful as it is challenging. In this fun and interactive in-person course, you'll learn everything you need to know about labor and delivery. We'll cover the essentials of breathing techniques, pain management, and birthing positions, but we'll do it with a smile. The class is held over a weeknight and a weekend for a total of 6 hours. The price is $250.00 and includes two participants.

$250 USD · Flat rate

CPR Education (Training Only)

Our CPR Classes are in partnership with the American Heart Association Heartsaver Pediatric First Aid CPR AED Training Course teaches the lifesaving skills that all parents and professionals need to know to respond to and manage illnesses and injuries in a child or infant in the first few minutes until professional help arrives. The course covers how to promptly recognize several life-threatening emergencies, give high-quality chest compressions, deliver appropriate ventilations and provide early use of an AED.

$50 USD · Flat rate

CPR Education (With Two Year Certification)

Our CPR Classes are in partnership with the American Heart Association Heartsaver Pediatric First Aid CPR AED Training Course teaches the lifesaving skills that all parents and professionals need to know to respond to and manage illnesses and injuries in a child or infant in the first few minutes until professional help arrives. The course covers how to promptly recognize several life-threatening emergencies, give high-quality chest compressions, deliver appropriate ventilations and provide early use of an AED.

$75 USD · Flat rate

Comprehensive Postpartum Doula Support Package

Start with a free one-hour, no-obligation consultation to see if we’re the right fit for your postpartum needs. Our package is designed to provide comprehensive support for you and your baby during the early weeks at home, tailored to meet the unique needs of your family. Feeding Support: Receive guidance and support for all types of infant feeding methods, including breastfeeding, pumping, donated breast milk, and formula feeding, whether it’s through a dropper, cup, or bottle. Calming Techniques: Learn effective techniques to calm and soothe a fussy baby, including Dr. Harvey Karp’s 5 S’s (Swaddling, Side/Stomach-lying, Shushing, Swinging, and Sucking), along with other proven methods. Sleep Support: Get information and strategies to help your baby (and you) fall asleep and stay asleep, plus explore options for safe sleeping arrangements. Newborn Care: Hands-on help with all the newborn care essentials, including burping, nail clipping, nose cleaning, bathing, diapering (and tips for preventing diaper rash), tummy time, umbilical cord care, and penile care (whether intact or circumcised). Family Introductions: Tips and strategies for introducing your new baby to siblings and pets, helping to minimize jealousy and maximize bonding. Physical Recovery Support: Support for your physical recovery from birth, whether you had a vaginal or cesarean delivery, and guidance on managing the changes in your body. Emotional Recovery Support: Assistance with your emotional recovery from birth, including processing the experience, recognizing the signs of baby blues versus postpartum depression, and finding the right resources if needed. Special Circumstances Support: Guidance and support for unique situations, including extended recovery from birth complications, premature babies, multiples (twins, triplets, or more), adopted babies, and babies with birth defects or other medical concerns. This package is designed to provide you with the knowledge, skills, and emotional support to navigate the postpartum period with confidence and ease.

$50 USD · Per hour

What to expect

As a birth and postpartum doula, I provide compassionate support to families throughout pregnancy, labor, and the early weeks of parenthood, ensuring they feel informed, empowered, and cared for during this transformative time. I teach childbirth and CPR classes, equipping parents with the skills and confidence needed for a safe and positive birthing experience. I also offer placenta encapsulation services to aid postpartum recovery, all while tailoring my approach to meet each family's unique needs and preferences, whether they're seeking a natural birth or a more medically-focused experience. My goal is to support every parent in making their own choices and feeling respected throughout the journey.

Reviews for Jenn Carlson

5.0 1 review

5.0

August 31, 2024

Jenn possesses a unique blend of deep, evidence-based knowledge and genuine empathy, which was evident in every interaction. She took the time to understand my preferences, fears, and hopes, and tailored her support to fit my birth needs. Whether it was providing invaluable information quickly over text, offering comforting words during labor, or simply being a supportive presence throughout my birth experience, Jenn was there every step of the way. Jenn’s skill in managing both physical and emotional aspects of labor was remarkable. We felt incredibly empowered with her was by our side. She ensured that my experience was as positive and respectful as possible. Her ability to read the room, adapt to changing circumstances, and offer practical solutions made all the difference. While my birth didn’t go how I had envisioned due to unforeseen complications, I felt incredibly supported and advocated for throughout the process. At every significant decision point, we discussed and weighed the options. Jenn made sure to inform me on what is or would happen and why. In the end, I believe the decisions I made during labor were the most well-informed and safest options for the baby and me. I feel positively about my birth experience because of Jenn who was a light and guide during the process. If it weren’t for her being my doula, I’m sure I would have had a traumatic labor in which I would have continued to regret my choice in provider and hospital. We are profoundly grateful for Jenn’s commitment to our well-being throughout the pregnancy and labor experience.

— Emily L.

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Certifications, training, and specialties

Certification and training

Birth Doula Certification, Madriella Doula Network (2013)

Education

Bachelor of Arts in International Studies/Economics (2000)

Languages

English, German

Specialties

Abortion Doula Care Acupressure During Labor Advanced Maternal Age Anxiety Anxiety and Depression Aromatherapy Birth and Lactation Birth Doula Birth Support Birth Trauma Breastfeeding Assistance and Support Breastfeeding Support Caring for Special Needs Children Childbirth Education Doula Trainer Evidence-Based Care Exclusive Pumping/Bottle Feeding Genetic Testing Grief and Loss HAES (Health at Every Size) Approach High-Risk Pregnancy Hypnobirthing Method Infant Care Labor Doula LGBTQ+ Loss and Bereavement Doula Massage Maternal Fetal Positioning Multiples Natural Birth Neonatal Resuscitation Program Newborn Care Parenting Support Perinatal and Infant Loss Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Placenta Encapsulation Postpartum Doula Care Pregnancy Complications Pregnancy Loss Prenatal Lactation Education Relaxation Techniques Returning to work (pumping, breastmilk storage, etc) Support during Labor, Birth, and Postpartum Support in Pregnancy Loss Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)

Certifications, training, and credentials are listed by the provider. Bornbir doesn't verify them, so ask Jenn for a copy of any certificate you rely on.