Donna Hooyen

Donna Hooyen

1. What do you offer to OC Midwifery Customers?
I offer the knowledge passed down for generations to the midwives of today. The knowledge gleaned during my apprenticeships as well as my formal education at Nizhoni Institute of Midwifery. I offer respectful care, and the encouragement of my clients to ask questions about their care. I offer my own experience in giving birth to my 9 children, on a very basic level, from one woman to another.

2. Why did you decide to become a midwife?
I can't say I ever *decided* to become a midwife. While I was pregnant with my second baby in 1987, I was fortunate to pick up a few books on natural birth and midwifery. I knew then, that I was going to be a midwife. It was something I had to do. I spent the next 20 years reading everything I could on pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and women's health, especially related to fertility awareness. I was immersed in the natural birth community here. I had one more baby in the hospital, then went on to have my last six at home, under the care of midwives. For me, midwifery isn't something I decided to do, it is something I have to do.

3. What are your hobbies or passions?
Some of my hobbies include knitting, spinning yarn, sewing, reading, catching a good movie, going to the beach with my kids, and working with our dogs. I am passionate about all things birth related, biologically appropriate raw food for our dogs, attachment parenting, and of course, my family.

4. What is your philosophy about birth?
I believe that birth works. That women were designed for and are capable of giving birth to their babies. I believe that women and their families should be given the information to make the choices that are right for them. I feel that all women have the right to experience their birth and to feel the power of their bodies. Women remember their birth stories for the rest of their lives. I believe women should be left with memories that leave them feeling that they owned their births, and that they felt a sense of control, no matter how their birth plays out.

5. Tell us a little something about your personal life.
I was born in New Jersey, moved to San Diego with I was 11 and I have lived here ever since. My husband and I have been together for almost 26 years, and we have nine children and one granddaughter. Our first three babies were born in the hospital, the last six were all born at home. At this time, seven of our kids still live at home, along with four dogs and two cats. Yes, it's a busy life!

6. What are your specialties or unique qualities?
Having breastfed 8 of my 9 babies for 2+ years each, I have a strong understanding of the breastfeeding dyad. My own personal breastfeeding career has spanned over 3 decades, a total of 24 years. I had my first baby at age 18, and I understand the feelings and prejudices that younger mothers sometimes face.

Donna Hooyen
Licensed Midwife

Donna@ocmidwifery.com
Tel: (858)740-7222

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