Hi, I’m Manu
Getting to know me is important in the parent doula relationship, so it makes sense that you want to know a little more!
I’m half Italian, half German, I was born in London and I lived 16 fantastic years in Singapore, where I gave birth to both of my babies. As an Expat, I came to truly appreciate the need for support during labour and the postnatal period, with no family close by to help me out, especially in those early weeks with a newborn. My passion for birth work began with my own experiences - having a doula at my first birth (and later at the home birth of my second baby) made a profound difference for both me and my husband. I saw just how valuable continuous support, reassurance and advocacy can be during birth. Inspired by this, I trained as a Doula in Singapore with Childbirth International in 2004, and have continued to deepen my knowledge and skills, ensuring the families I support receive the best care possible.
Why do I enjoy my job so much?
A friend once asked me why I enjoy my job so much. My response was easy: I get a huge rush when the baby is born! The baby is placed on mum's chest and the parents meet their baby for the first time. There’s this magical moment when baby is peacefully lying on mum and intently looks at mum and then at dad as if to say “Hello, I finally made it, and I’m right where I need to be”. What an honour!
It's a privilege to share in their accomplishments - not only in pregnancy, but the birth of their baby too! Seeing parents talk, touch, sing and fall in love with their baby is a priceless experience. It doesn’t matter what kind of birth they planned for or experienced, just seeing them hold and bond with their baby makes the whole journey worthwhile.
Dad’s are important too
I'm there to support both of you during your journey to having a baby. It's as much about the dad as the mum and I make it a priority to involve the dad as much as possible from the very first time we meet. Giving the dad the tools and information he needs to best support you, means we works as a great team and he feels at ease as the responsibility of caring for his loved one is shared. I love seeing dads blossom in confidence during a birth, as I gently remind them of things they can do to support mum and the bond they build is magical. Mums get the best support possible, and know that not only are their needs being addressed, but so too are those of their partners, (no dads standing around scared senseless, clueless of what to do, wanting to "fix it", feeling lost and out of place!)
My philosophy
The journey into parenthood is a deeply personal and precious time. The support I provide to families is unique according to their individual needs. I do not have an agenda to see women birth ‘naturally at any cost’ – rather I aim to support parents through their birth journey, whatever path it takes. My goal is for new parents to feel respected, informed and nurtured in their early days of parenthood. As parents, it is important that you learn and understand what birthing choices are available to you. This will enable you to make informed decisions, based on your needs and wishes. With this knowledge, coupled with the invaluable support of a doula, you are steps closer to achieving the birth you hope for.
Training & Qualifications
Since becoming a doula, I have trained extensively in hypnobirthing, postnatal care, infant feeding, homeopathy, and bodywork techniques, ensuring I can provide well-rounded support throughout pregnancy, birth, and the early postnatal period.
Birth Doula & Childbirth Educator
I trained with Childbirth International, gaining a deep understanding of birth from both a global and individual perspective. This has allowed me to support expectant parents from diverse backgrounds, each with their own unique birth preferences and expectations. Having worked extensively in private hospitals, I also help parents navigate their options when choosing an obstetrician—ensuring they find the right match for their needs, values, and vision for their baby’s birth.
Hypnobirthing
I have trained in The Mongan Method, KG Hypnobirthing, and The Little Birth Company, helping parents approach birth with calmness, confidence, and practical tools to reduce fear and pain. I can adapt my knowledge of hypnobirthing to your personal needs.
Postnatal Support & Infant Care
After moving back to London in 2014, I trained with Younique Postnatal as a postnatal doula, supporting families in their transition to parenthood. I provide guidance on newborn care, sleep, and emotional adjustment, whilst ensuring you are nurtured and supported.
Postnatal Recovery
I offer Postnatal Massage and Belly Binding for deep relaxation, physical support and recovery for new mums after birth. This helps to realign the torso, pelvis, and back, bring internal organs back into balance, and offer a deep sense of being “held” and supported in the postpartum period.
Infant Feeding Support
As a Coach & Breastfeeding Counsellor with The Infant Feeding Academy, I support parents with all aspects of breastfeeding—from getting off to the best start to troubleshooting challenges in the early days, weeks, and months. A new mum can never get enough reassurance, and I’m here to provide a listening ear, helping parents understand what’s normal newborn behaviour and how their baby’s needs evolve.
Holistic Birth Support
I incorporate a variety of techniques to enhance comfort and progress in labour, including:
Homeopathy for pregnancy, labour, and breastfeeding challenges
Aromatherapy with essential oils to support labour, promote relaxation, or provide energy when needed.
Rebozo techniques to aid comfort and positioning during labour.
Spinning Babies® techniques to optimise baby’s position in utero