Jessica Hullinger

More about me

Hi, I’m Jess. I’m a birth and postnatal doula, breastfeeding supporter, and writer based in Brighton. I serve clients in Sussex, Surrey, Kent, and parts of London. You should reach out to me if you’re looking for a doula who:

• understands the science and physiology of labour, birth, and breastfeeding
• is a fierce and unwavering advocate for birthing people and their rights to feel safe, respected, and heard
• will support you unconditionally and without judgment whether you want to give birth in a hospital or at home
• has experience with all kinds of births including “natural” birth, c-section, VBAC, labour ward and birth centre
• can guide you in weighing the potential benefits and risks of various pathways so you can make informed and empowered decisions
• is trained in breastfeeding support
• draws on her own experiences of birth and motherhood
• is a deep and empathic listener who can hold space for you to prepare for and process your birth
• brings a calm and reassuring presence to any room
• finds joy in nurturing new parents (and their babies!)

More about me: I am originally from the United States but have lived in England for nearly a decade now and feel very settled. I have two children, and was supported by wonderful doulas during both pregnancies. I’m an experienced science journalist, and throughout my transition into motherhood I became fascinated by the science of birth, things like: how the body changes during pregnancy, how physical movement affects baby positioning, the hormonal shifts that accompany labour, the brain science of pain and fear, and how feeling safe, respected, and heard helps reduce a woman’s chances of experiencing birth trauma. My doula work is rooted in an understanding of these physiological mechanisms. I strive to use evidence-based practices to support my clients, while also guiding them to trust their own intuition about what’s right for their unique circumstances. My goal is for my clients to feel prepared, empowered, and supported before, during, and after their births. I offer antenatal sessions, birth support, and postnatal care, and can tailor support to your needs.

During our antenatal visits together we might discuss: 

• your hopes and fears about birth
• what labour feels, looks, and sounds like
• plans and preferences for labour, birth, and the postnatal period
• breastfeeding education
• navigating the maternity care system
• how to use physical movement to your advantage
• practical tips your birth partner can use to support you during birth
• methods for pain relief, comfort, and relaxation

During labour I can help with things like: 

• physical support such as massage, movement, and counterpressure for managing discomfort
• emotional support and encouragement
• protecting your peace and creating a positive birth environment
• advocating for your preferences
• helping you navigate unexpected or challenging circumstances  

Postnatal care could involve: 

• nourishing meals and herbal support
• light massage, reiki, and ASMR sensory therapy 
• grounding breathwork for nervous system reset
• basic breastfeeding support and resources
• practical domestic support around the home
• debriefing your birth story
• emotional support as you navigate life with your new baby
• or I can simply hold the baby for you while you nap/shower/eat/do whatever you want to feel whole and human!

I look forward to supporting you through this new and transformative phase of your life.

Client testimonials: 

“Jess’ support throughout my pregnancy, birth & post natal period was invaluable in easing the fears and anxieties I had around the birth itself. Her calming presence and gentle encouragement was so reassuring and I can’t thank her enough for being part of my birthing experience.” —Kate M., London

“Throughout labour, your support was unwavering. You knew exactly when to encourage, when to reassure, and when to simply be present. You advocated for me, believed in me, and reminded me of my strength even when things felt intense. Having someone so experienced, compassionate, and intuitive by my side gave me the confidence to trust my body and the process.”—KS, London

“Hiring Jess to be my doula was possibly the best decision I made for labour. She provided excellent advice prior to birth and was a knowledgeable and calm companion throughout labour even when things went awry. Knowing she would be there for me throughout labour alleviated a lot of anxiety going into birth and it was very helpful to have her in the room throughout the entire process.”—Jen D., London

“Our experience with Jess has been very positive, as she has been an incredible support during our postpartum period. As we don’t have family nearby, she’s been an invaluable extra pair of hands, helping with everything from cooking and laundry to making sure I’m cared for while looking after the baby. She’s also offered wonderful breastfeeding support, soothing touches like herbal teas and massages, and, just as importantly, emotional support during postpartum. She brings a calm, nurturing presence and has made those early weeks feel so much more manageable.” —Carmen F., London