Jessica English

Jessica English, BA, CD(DONA), LCCE, is a mother, doula, natural childbirth instructor and birth activist. She first became interested in birth as a student at Kalamazoo College, where she researched and wrote about midwifery. She earned her bachelor’s degree in English and went on to a career in marketing, public relations and journalism.

Originally certified as a Bradley Method childbirth instructor, Jessica now teaches an independent childbirth class that incorporate several different methods. Jessica is also trained as a doula through DONA International. As a doula, she attends both home births and hospital births, supporting women through a wide variety of birth journeys.

She’s an active member of La Leche League International and Natural Families of Kalamazoo, as well as organizer of the annual Kzoo Baby & Family Expo.

Jessica is also a freelance writer and public relations consultant. Her work has appeared in publications around the region and the state, on topics as diverse as parenting, business and education. Jessica’s natural childbirth e-newsletter informs and inspires hundreds of parents and professionals around Southwest Michigan and nationwide.

For more information about classes or doula services—or to simply talk birth, contact Jessica below.

(269) 598-1488

Articles By This Columnist

Building A Natural Birth Renaissance

Tell people you’re interested in a natural birth, and they just might look at you like you’ve lost your mind.

“Why in the world would you do that?” is the usual response. Women are called crazy, reminded that “you don’t get a medal at the end,” and scolded that they “don’t have to be a hero.” Worse yet, they’re sometimes insulted by those who assure them, “Oh, you’ll get the epidural.”