Mercedes Montgomery

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF

Hi, I’m Mercedes! I am an Indigenous childbirth educator and doula, but I am also a mom of two boys and a military spouse. When I’m not talking about birthwork or lactation, I love to paint, go to farmers' markets, bake, read, and craft. I have a love for German Shepherds and cats, as well as exotic animals, and I take care of my own "mini zoo" full of feathery and scaly friends. I love being involved with my community and helping wherever I can. I am newer to San Antonio but am so excited to get out and explore the area!

HOW DID YOU COME TO DOULA WORK?

I entered doula work after giving birth to my first child in 2020. His birth was an unmedicated hospital birth that resulted in birth trauma, and I really wanted to help other families become informed and educated about birth and their choices, especially in the hospital setting. I also became passionate about breastfeeding, which led me to offer lactation support to other families. After my second child's birth in 2022, and experiencing a horrible doula at my homebirth, I became even more passionate about ensuring families received the birth worker and support they deserved, and making sure another good doula was available to outrule those who may not be in it for the families. My ultimate goal is to offer education, information, and support to those who need it, so we can encourage more positive experiences surrounding birth and postpartum!

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST OR FIND MOST REWARDING ABOUT DOULA WORK?

I love that I can support families during such a fragile time. Adding a baby to a family dynamic can be stressful, and just being there to "mother" the mother or birthing parent is really what I feel is most important, so they can focus on forming that bond with their baby while also getting the chance to relax and have some stressors lifted from their shoulders. The fourth trimester is crucial, in my opinion, and being able to offer support during that time to set the family up for success, and watching them get the hang of it, is so rewarding!

WHAT ARE YOUR SPECIALTIES OR AREAS OF PARTICULAR PASSION?

My specialty lies in being an Indigenous CBE and doula, so I am well-versed in incorporating culture, traditions, and other beliefs into my birthwork and education as needed. I am incredibly passionate about lactation and ensuring the birthing parent receives the support, encouragement, and education they may need during their lactation journey, including pumping, supplementing, or finding a breastmilk donor. I also place a strong emphasis on nutrition, making sure the family—especially the birthing parent—has access to nutritional, filling, and warming foods that are beneficial for healing and lactation.