What inspires someone to dedicate their career to caring for new families? We sat down with Sasha, founder of Sasha & Co. Newborn Care in Vancouver, to talk about her journey into postpartum care, the importance of community, and why new parents deserve more support.
What inspired you to become a postpartum doula?
Sasha: The turning point for me was becoming an auntie for the first time.
My brother and sister-in-law welcomed their first baby in Vancouver, surrounded by four grandparents, two aunties and uncles, and lots of friends who were eager to help.
And even with all that support, it was still so much work!
What struck me was that everyone wanted to help, but we didn't always know how. And when you're freshly postpartum, especially as a first-time parent, you often don't even know what you need. You're exhausted, recovering, and learning how to care for this tiny new person.
I remember thinking, If it's this challenging for a family with so much support, how are people managing without it?
I'd always been fascinated by birth, but I realized that what really drew me to this work was the babies and the opportunity to support mothers and families as they welcomed a new life.
How has your background influenced your approach to postpartum care?
Sasha: My approach has been shaped by my mixed Filipino and European heritage, my background in early childhood education, and my experiences living abroad and learning about traditional health and postpartum practices in China and Mexico.
I'm fascinated by the ways different cultures honour the postpartum period. In many traditions, caring for the mother after birth is a central part of welcoming a baby.
I think that's something we don't always prioritize in our Western healthcare system.
I'm passionate about bringing together traditional wisdom and modern, evidence-based newborn care. But I also believe that every family is unique.
I enter each home with an open mind, curiosity, and a willingness to learn. My job isn't to tell families there's one right way to do things. It's to understand their values, respect their choices, and support them in a way that feels right for them.
What's the biggest misconception about hiring a postpartum doula?
Sasha: That it's a luxury service, something only wealthy families need.
It's interesting because people will spend thousands of dollars on a crib, stroller, and baby gadgets, but investing in postpartum care can feel indulgent.
And people often say, "Well, my mother managed on her own," or "My grandmother raised seven children without a doula!"
But traditionally, new mothers weren't expected to do everything alone. They had grandmothers, aunties, sisters, neighbours, and friends helping with meals, childcare, and everyday life.
Today, especially in Vancouver, many families simply don't have that extended support network nearby.
That's the gap postpartum doulas help fill.
Of course, professional care is a financial investment, and not everyone can access it. But the need for support isn't a luxury. It's a fundamental human need.
What advice would you give someone preparing for their first baby?
Sasha: Build your community first.
Don't worry so much about creating the perfect nursery or getting all the right gadgets. Figure out who your people are and how they can help.
Everybody says, "Let me know if you need anything!" But what does that actually mean?
Does it mean dropping off meals? Walking the dog? Taking care of an older child? Coming over to help with bath time? Being available for a phone call?
Have those conversations before the baby arrives.
And where there are gaps, make a plan. That might mean hiring a postpartum doula, arranging a cleaner, organizing meal deliveries, or even having a nesting party instead of a traditional baby shower.
Imagine gathering your friends to prepare meals, fold baby laundry, and get your home ready for those first weeks.
Before you build the perfect nursery, build your village.
Postpartum Support in Vancouver
At Sasha & Co. Newborn Care, we believe every family deserves to feel nurtured and supported during the fourth trimester.
Our postpartum doulas provide compassionate overnight newborn care and practical guidance for families across Vancouver and surrounding communities.
Book your free consultation to learn more about how we can support your family.