Meet Lou

Lou Read

Lou Read (she/her) is a Certified Birth Doula (CHB), a Postpartum Doula, sometimes coach, writer and former communications pro. And she’s a creative home cook with a passion for nutrition in the perinatal period.

Originally from Sydney, Australia, Lou now lives in Brooklyn serving individuals and families of all iteration across NYC in person and virtually anywhere.

Birth work is Lou’s calling. Her nurturing spirit is a natural fit for families seeking compassionate and informed support while navigating the life transition of pregnancy, birth, parenthood in all of its raw and real beauty and challenge.

She is comfortable supporting births in a range of settings — hospital, home, and birthing centers. Her sense of humor and ability to find light in the dark is an asset when unexpected curve balls appear (as they tend to in birth).

Birth doula support with Lou includes 3-6 prenatal sessions, labor and delivery support, and some postpartum care. Her goal is to collaborate with clients as they navigate the entirety of the perinatal period, and especially the often overlooked tasks of choosing care providers and managing broader family dynamics.

MATE is Lou’s business baby. She is here for you when you need.

Want to meet? Schedule an intro call.

Jiva, Ojas and CJ

Lou’s family. The backbone of MATE. Those who make it possible for her to do this work. Her biggest cheerleaders (unbiased, of course) and loves of her life.