Giving Birth Soon? These Virtual Doulas Are Here to Help.

As the COVID-19 pandemic rips its ways across the world we’re finding ourselves in a whole new world. And not in that fun, Disney way full of adventure and intrigue. This is a world of isolation, new regulations, a frightening virus that could be anywhere at any time. It could be on you, right now. It could be on me. 

Some folks are, of course, in more precarious situations than others. For anyone whose due date is rapidly approaching this extra dose of uncertainty is exactly what the doctor didn’t order. The rules are constantly shifting. Masks are recommended, then required. No more schools, then restaurants, then all businesses. Stay home, officials implore, stay safe. 

Levitin saw a need among the birthing community and knew that she and her colleagues had the power to do something about it. After a brief moment of figuring out the best way to support birthing folks during this new reality, she began to organize the NYC Doula Hotline in collaboration with Golda Fleischman and Melissa Murphy. The Hotline provides 24/7 virtual support for expecting parents, with 26 doulas taking four-hour on-call shifts. Levitin, Fleischman and Murphy run all the administrative efforts. Everyone involved is volunteering their time, wisdom and compassion. Read more about the NYC Doula Hotline on Kveller here.