Leah Hairston (she/her) is a full-spectrum doula, perinatal social worker, lactation counselor and advocate. She educates and empowers women with female reproductive systems, reminding them of their inherent power. Her dedication to facilitating spaces for healing, equal access, and justice stems from her deep commitment to addressing the systemic reproductive injustices against Black women. She is the founder of Sweet Bee Services, a Baltimore-based doula agency that provides justice-focused, trauma-informed, family-centered care throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia. When not working, Leah enjoys trying new recipes while listening to audiobooks, walking her pup T’Challa, and savoring moments with loved ones. She is passionate about all things related to babies, reproductive wholeness, and social justice. Learn more and support her work by visiting www.sweetbeedoula.com.
Education
Bachelor of Science (2014)
Bachelor of Arts (2014)
Masters of Science in Social Work (2017)
Certification and training
Full-Spectrum Doula, Ancient Song Doula Services (2016)
Advanced Maternal AgeAnxietyAnxiety and DepressionBabywearingBirth and Lactation Birth DoulaBirth SupportBirth TraumaBreastfeeding Assistance and SupportBreastfeeding SupportBuilding Healthy CommunicationChildbirth EducationDoula TrainerEarly Parenting EducatorEvidence-Based CareExclusive Pumping/Bottle FeedingHAES (Health at Every Size) ApproachHealth CoachHealthy EatingHerbal Postpartum CareHigh Risk and Low Intervention Obstetrical CareHigh-Risk PregnancyHome BirthInfertilityIntrauterine Insemination (IUI)In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)Keeping FitLabor DoulaLactation ConsultationLatch IssuesLow Milk Supply/Over SupplyMindfulnessNatural BirthNatural ChildbirthNewborn CareNewborn PrepNipple and Breast PainOvernight Newborn CarePain Management Perinatal and Infant LossPerinatal Anxiety and DepressionPerinatal Mood DisordersPostpartum CarePostpartum Doula CarePostpartum LifePost Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)PreconceptionPregnancy ComplicationsPregnancy LossPrenatal CarePreventative CareRelaxation TechniquesReproductive Mental HealthReturning to work (pumping, breastmilk storage, etc)SafetySelf-EsteemSexual HealthSibling PreparationStress ManagementSupport during Labor, Birth, and PostpartumSupport in Pregnancy LossTelehealthVaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)Vaginal SteamViolenceWater birth
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Languages
English, Spanish
Accepted insurances
Aetna Better HealthBlue Choice Health PlanBlue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee ProgramCareFirst Blue Cross Blue ShieldCignaJohns Hopkins Employer Health ProgramsLiberty MutualMaryland Medical Assistance (Medicaid)MedicaidMedicareMedStar Family ChoiceMedStar SelectMetLifeSAG AFTRA Health PlanUnitedHealthcareUnitedHealthcare Community PlanUniversity of Maryland Health AdvantageUniversity of Maryland Health PartnersVirginia Coordinated Care (VCC)Virginia Health NetworkVirginia Premier Health PlanWellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
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Service introduction
We provide the personalized, holistic reproductive care you deserve and desire. When faced with increased risks of birth-related complications, due to race or high-risk pregnancy, navigating healthcare systems is even scarier and more overwhelming. We make sure it isn’t.
As we work together, your confidence grows. Your ability to birth without fear and to navigate the often confusing healthcare system increases because we’re consistently by your side the whole way. Our clients feel safer physically & emotionally. Their ability to advocate with their doctors, even when faced with curveballs, increases. This security and peace of mind make transitioning to postpartum easier. Our clients’ experiences range from hospital to home births, from VBACs to emergency c-sections. They’re survivors of infant loss, pre-eclampsia, hyperemesis, and more. Yet for nearly a decade, Sweet Bee moms and dads have told us how they felt so powerful during their experience. That’s our ultimate goal: to give you the tools and support you need to take back your power and create the experience that YOU want.
Packages
Empower
This package is perfect for independent and self-starting parents who prefer virtual, flexible support to create their birth plan and navigate the experience with confidence. This offers structured, expert guidance.
Includes:
-3 Virtual Meetings
-Continuous Labor Support
-Unlimited Text/Email Support
-Digital Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Program
-$100 off Childbirth Education Class
*This package does not include in-person support.
$2,700.00
USD Flat rate
Nurture
A well-rounded blend of in-person, virtual, and class-based support to guide you through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery with confidence and care. This is ideal for families seeking hands-on and personalized care from pregnancy through postpartum.
Includes:
-2 In Person Prenatal Meetings
-1 Virtual Prenatal Meeting
-Continuous Labor Support and Guaranteed Backup Doula
-Unlimited Text/Email Support
-3 Postpartum Meetings
-Digital Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Program
-Complimentary Items: Yoga Class at Oasis PT and Virtual Breastfeeding Class
*This package is Medicaid Eligible.
**All travel fees and taxes are already included in price.
$3,500.00
USD Flat rate
Thrive
The ultimate support package combines in-person guidance, virtual tools, and educational resources for the most complete care experience encouraging a seamless journey through pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. This is ideal for parents seeking the highest level of personalized support with exclusive access to a full suite of resources and education.
Includes:
-2 In Person Prenatal Meetings
-1 Virtual Prenatal Meeting
-Continuous Labor Support and Guaranteed Backup Doula
-Unlimited Text/Email Support
-3 Postpartum Meetings
-Digital Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Program
-Class Pass: Access to all our client classes including Yoga Class at Oasis PT, Virtual Breastfeeding Class, Nutrition Class, Push Prep and Group Childbirth Education.
**All travel fees and taxes are already included in price.
$5,000.00
USD Flat rate
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Show all packages
Empower
This package is perfect for independent and self-starting parents who prefer virtual, flexible support to create their birth plan and navigate the experience with confidence. This offers structured, expert guidance.
Includes:
-3 Virtual Meetings
-Continuous Labor Support
-Unlimited Text/Email Support
-Digital Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Program
-$100 off Childbirth Education Class
*This package does not include in-person support.
$2,700.00
USD Flat rate
Nurture
A well-rounded blend of in-person, virtual, and class-based support to guide you through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery with confidence and care. This is ideal for families seeking hands-on and personalized care from pregnancy through postpartum.
Includes:
-2 In Person Prenatal Meetings
-1 Virtual Prenatal Meeting
-Continuous Labor Support and Guaranteed Backup Doula
-Unlimited Text/Email Support
-3 Postpartum Meetings
-Digital Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Program
-Complimentary Items: Yoga Class at Oasis PT and Virtual Breastfeeding Class
*This package is Medicaid Eligible.
**All travel fees and taxes are already included in price.
$3,500.00
USD Flat rate
Thrive
The ultimate support package combines in-person guidance, virtual tools, and educational resources for the most complete care experience encouraging a seamless journey through pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. This is ideal for parents seeking the highest level of personalized support with exclusive access to a full suite of resources and education.
Includes:
-2 In Person Prenatal Meetings
-1 Virtual Prenatal Meeting
-Continuous Labor Support and Guaranteed Backup Doula
-Unlimited Text/Email Support
-3 Postpartum Meetings
-Digital Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Program
-Class Pass: Access to all our client classes including Yoga Class at Oasis PT, Virtual Breastfeeding Class, Nutrition Class, Push Prep and Group Childbirth Education.
**All travel fees and taxes are already included in price.
$5,000.00
USD Flat rate
Daytime Postpartum Support
Compassionate care and guidance during the daylight hours of your postpartum journey.
Available from 8 AM to 9 PM, this service provides hands-on support to help you navigate the challenges of the early postpartum period. Whether you need assistance with newborn care, light household tasks, or emotional reassurance, our team is here to make your transition smoother.
4-hour minimum booking required
Travel fee included in cost
$50.00
USD Per hour
Overnight Postpartum
Peace of mind through the night with professional overnight care for you and your baby.
Available from 9 PM to 8 AM, this service offers dedicated overnight support to ensure you and your baby get the rest you need. Perfect for navigating nighttime feedings, soothing techniques, and creating a restful environment.
8-hour minimum booking required
Travel fee included in cost
$55.00
USD Per hour
Lactation Consultation
Expert support for your breastfeeding journey.
This 90-minute, in-home consultation provides tailored advice from a certified lactation counselor. Whether you're addressing challenges like latching, supply issues, or pumping, or simply looking to establish a strong start, we’re here to help you meet your breastfeeding goals.
Includes travel fee
$150.00
USD Flat rate
Ratings and reviews
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Frequently asked questions
How soon should I hire a doula?
We offer support from pre-conception through postpartum. Due to the demand for our services, we recommend you book your birth doula by no later than 20 weeks. For postpartum support, we suggest booking your doula by no later than 30 weeks. Preconception support can be booked as soon as you are ready for someone to go on the journey with you.
What is the difference between a birth and postpartum doula?
Birth doulas support pregnant people and their families as they prepare for birth and then during the labor experience. Postpartum doulas provide support once baby has arrived and the family is home. At Sweet Bee Services, several of our team members are full-spectrum, meaning they can provide support at either time.
What does a postpartum doula do?
Postpartum doulas support the birthing person and/or new parent(s) as they navigate life with a newborn. Our team is prepared to ease your stressors by handling the little things like washing dishes or organizing baby items, to the big things like providing overnight infant care and proactively intervening at the first signs of postpartum depression or anxiety.
What is a doula?
“Doula” comes from the Greek-word for female servant. Today, doulas are trained healthcare professionals who support individuals and families in various situations. At Sweet Bee Services, we are a team of birth and postpartum doulas, many of whom have additional specialty areas.
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