A safe place to work through life's ups and downs, in pregnancy, postpartum and beyond
Kindled Life began with Irene Kim and her own beautifully supported births as well as the stories of her friends and family, which sounded nothing like hers. Some sounded lonely. Some of them sounded scary. Some sounded like something had been taken that shouldn't have been. Irene couldn't stop thinking about the difference and went to work.
For more than 10 years, Irene Kim has supported families through labor, delivery, the tender weeks after, and on—as a doula, a birth instructor, and a woman who believes you should never feel alone at any stage of life.
Kindled Life is now a place dedicated to ensuring every individual, couple, and family feels seen, heard, cared for, and valued through the intense transformation of childbirth and the first months with a new baby. With over a decade of experience supporting 500+ expecting parents, Irene offers comprehensive support from pregnancy through the postpartum period.
Irene is described by clients as calming, professional, invested, kind, and experienced, embodying a gentle spirit that makes them feel safe, confident, and reassured. She is a knowledgeable advocate who is caring and understanding, creating a safe space for your authentic self, and empowering you to decide what is best for your unique journey.
From a free first conversation to the tender weeks after birth: this is what support with Irene looks like.
Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if we are right for you. Text or call 240-423-4973, or book online, and tell Irene about your pregnancy, your hopes and your worries.
Two prenatal meetings to get acquainted with one another and the birth process: logistics, preferences and concerns. Education and ongoing phone and email support throughout your pregnancy, with positive birth advocacy.
Early labor phone support, then Irene's attendance and hands-on support at your birth from active labor through the birth of your baby: verbal coaching, massage, and guidance into favorable positions, while helping you ask the right questions.
Breastfeeding support right after the birth and a postpartum visit within two weeks to make sure all is going well with mom and baby. Postpartum doula support is there if you want help in the weeks after.
It is my greatest honor to be welcomed into this miracle of new life, and my desire to make this life-changing experience as positive, comfortable, and even joyful as possible.
Kindled Life offers a full suite of services, from birth and beyond, where you can feel confident, comfortable, equipped, empowered, calm, and supported. For any questions about what each package includes, or to schedule a consultation, please get in touch.
In the weeks after birth, a postpartum doula provides peace of mind and a smoother transition through professional support, comfort, and encouragement.
I stay with you through active labor and delivery while suggesting positions, applying massage, and helping you ask the right questions.
Strengthen your mental and emotional health as you navigate the changes that come with your growing family. Self-pay and some insurances accepted.
Start with a free 15-minute consultation, or book a visit. Every appointment is confirmed by email or text.
My focus as a birth doula is solely the well-being of the mother, supporting her mentally, physically, and emotionally through her labor and birth. I believe that a woman is fully capable of giving birth to and caring for her baby, and that loving guidance and care right beside her makes all the difference.
10+ years of birth work, 200+ births attended.
Breastfeeding and newborn support from the first hour.
500+ students taught. CPR/First Aid certified, federal and county background check.
Johns Hopkins–trained counselor: the counseling training and background I bring to every birth.
A few words from the families Irene has supported.
The only person I was paying attention to during the birth was Irene. Irene helped me move through labor and find the best positions. She knew what I needed and wanted before I even asked.Birth doula support
I wish I had Irene for my first birth, and I'm so glad I found her for my second. She made a WORLD of a difference.Birth doula support
We took Irene's classes twice for each pregnancy. She gives you knowledge and confidence and inspires you along the way. I love her warm, fun-loving personality that makes the class so rich and enjoyable.Birth classes
Irene is so so calming; she has a gift. She was made for this.Birth doula support
Her massages were everything. That and her calm presence allowed me to fully relax and let go so my body could do the rest!Birth doula support
Everyone needs an Irene. Sweet, confident, reassuring, knowledgeable, professional, organized, warm, kind. I want her at every birth for me, my family, my friends, and anyone I know expecting a child.Birth doula support
Irene draws from her deep knowledge and vast experience to clear the fog and equip mothers and their partners. Classes are held in Urbana/Frederick, or on Zoom; pre-recorded sessions are also available.
Are you interested in paying it forward by becoming a doula yourself? Kindled Doula Academy trains and certifies the next generation of birth workers, with Irene mentoring you every step of the way.
Whether you're just beginning to explore your options or ready to book, Irene is here to answer your questions and help you take the next step.
Text or call 240-423-4973 · irene@kindledlifedoula.com · Classes in Urbana/Frederick, MD or on Zoom.
