What It’s Really Like to Be a NICU Parent—and Why Specialized Doula Support Matters

Mary Farrelly, RN, BSN, RNC-NIC, C-ND, a NICU nurse, educator, and doula trainer, joins Ciarra to shares her expertise on the NICU experience. She discusses what the NICU is, common reasons for NICU stays, how families can prepare, and the vital role of NICU doulas in supporting families through this challenging journey.

Mary has over a decade of experience supporting babies and families through some of the most complex beginnings. She is the founder of The NICU Translator and the NICU Doula Academy, where she trains doulas and care professionals to provide evidence-based, trauma-informed support to NICU families before, during, and long after discharge.

Website: https://www.thenicutranslator.com
Instagram: @‌thenicutranslator
NICU Birth Plan Template (free): https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan

Mary’s work bridges the medical and emotional sides of the NICU, helping families feel informed, empowered, and less alone during an experience that can be overwhelming and isolating. Through her courses, speaking, and the NICU Translated Podcast, she is passionate about changing the NICU narrative and ensuring families receive compassionate, specialized support when they need it most.

Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE.
For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE.
For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE.

Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE. 
Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy

This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE.

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The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk.

Birth, Baby! Podcast was originally produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly.

Ciarra Morgan:
www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.com
www.BirthBabyAcademy.com

Samantha Kelly:
www.beautifullymadedc.com