40. An Uncensored Conversation with Keira Welsh on Doulas Advocating In the Hospital

Kiera Walsh is a doula, birth educator, and host of the Birth Advocacy Podcast. She’s supported hundreds of first-time moms through birth and is known for her bold, no-BS approach to education and advocacy. Kiera’s not afraid to call out outdated hospital routines or speak up when something doesn’t sit right—and she teaches moms and doulas how to do the same. With a mix of real talk, practical tools, and unfiltered honesty, she helps women feel prepared, confident, and fully in control of their birth experience.Today we discuss how to ACTUALLY advocate for yourself during birth, even when you're not a medical or birth expert. How to stand up to bullies in birth. We get all fired up on this episode and you won't want to miss it!Find Keira at www.birthadvocacypodcast.com/moms and www.birthadvocacypodcast.com/doulasIG: https://instagram.com/thebirthroomChapters00:00Introduction to Birth Advocacy01:31Kira's Journey into Birth Work05:04Navigating Hospital Birth as a Doula06:34Understanding Advocacy in Birth09:33The Importance of Asking Questions11:17Informed Consent and Obstetric Violence16:10The Role of Providers in Birth22:25Planning for Birth: A, B, and C25:51The Role of Doulas in Birth Advocacy30:29Experiences with Provider Intimidation37:27The Impact of Hospital Policies on Birth42:24Final Thoughts on Birth Advocacy