Lena Martin

About

Hi my name is Lena, I am married and have two children, George (born 2001) and Libby (born 2004). We also have a lively Springer Spaniel called Oscar and live in Guildford.

I have been working as a Doula since 2016 and have helped and supported many families on my journey including first and second time mums, breast and bottle fed babies and premature babies.

Previously I worked as a nursery nurse part time on Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) at my local hospital. I had been in my role for 8 years and I loved my job. It enabled me to help, support and encourage new parents in the care of their baby/babies. I really enjoyed getting to know the parents and extended families and sharing my skills and knowledge.

A huge part of my role was parent craft. I am experienced in teaching parents how to bath,hold baby correctly,establish feeds (breast or bottle), winding methods and calming techniques. Sometimes this can be with very tiny babies and assists in enabling parents to go home confident in every aspect of their babies care.

I am very experienced in looking after premature, small babies, twins, triplets and babies with complex needs in my role on SCBU and the challenges this can bring, I am equally confident with term babies and would be keen to work through strategies with you to overcome any issues in a calm and positive manner.

On a voluntary basis I help run a support group called Positive Touch. This is for all families that have come through SCBU with premature or sick term babies. I find this extremely rewarding and it provides me with skills and understanding of older children as as well as babies. I enjoy getting hands on in these sessions and helping with arts and crafts and entertaining older children.
I have also enjoyed supporting friends and families with term babies including first and second time parents. Giving help and support on feeding issues and strategies to integrate a new baby into an older sibling’s world!

As a Postnatal Doula I will be able to share all the skills I have gained being a sister, mother, auntie and in my role on SCBU. Most of all, I would like to be able to support you in your new and sometimes daunting journey of becoming a parent.
I will do all I can to help and support you and your family in becoming confident and fulfilled with your new-born, until you no longer need me.

I am able to offer flexible hours and duties to be agreed and to suit your needs. I am happy to look after siblings, run errands, walk dogs, and do light housework and cooking. I will look after your new baby and / or siblings so you can shower, rest or attend appointments.

I am also available for Breastfeeding help and support. This can be just a one off visit or as many as you need to feel confident and happy with your breastfeeding baby. I have helped and supported many mums establish and continue to breastfeed after birthing term and premature babies.