Meet Shakila Marando, Founder of DOULAS by the BAY
A Mother, a Doula, and a Mission to Support Every Family since 2009
Discover what makes us different
The Story Behind DOULAS by the BAY
Being a mother myself changed the way I show up for families, with empathy, respect, and a genuine desire to make the challenging moments a little easier. ”
Being a mother myself changed the way I show up for families, with empathy, respect, and a genuine desire to make the challenging moments a little easier.
In 2009, Shakila founded DOULAS by the BAY with a clear mission: to make expert, compassionate doula care accessible to every family — regardless of how their birth story unfolds. Since then, her team has supported thousands of families across California through pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period.
Book Your Free Consultation With Shakila's Team!In 2009, Shakila founded DOULAS by the BAY with a clear mission: to make expert, compassionate doula care accessible to every family — regardless of how their birth story unfolds. Since then, her team has supported thousands of families across California through pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period.
Book Your Free Consultation!Our Purpose
Because every parent deserves to feel seen, supported, and cared for. No family should face pregnancy, birth, or the postpartum period without a trusted doula by their side, so they can move through it all with clarity, confidence, and calm.
Our Vision
We envision strong, healthy communities where equitable access to doula care enhances maternal and infant outcomes — and creates lasting opportunities for those called to support families.
Our Mission
At DOULAS by the BAY, we walk alongside families through pregnancy, birth, and the early days of parenthood — offering compassionate, continuous support that shapes how a family begins. We are equally committed to the doulas who make this possible. By creating meaningful, structured employment, we invest in the people who invest in families — building a community where everyone is supported, recognized, and equipped to do their best work.
Care, access, and community — one family at a time.
What Makes Us Different
DOULAS by the BAY is not a referral platform. We are a professionally structured, employee-based organization, and that distinction matters deeply to the families we serve.
Every doula on our team is:
Ready to Feel Supported?
Common Questions About Doula Services
Do you have another question? Reach our team at info@doulasbythebay.com
How much does a doula cost in San Francisco or Los Angeles?
Doula pricing depends on the kind of support you need, whether that’s birth support, postpartum care, overnight help, or a combination. We offer flexible packages to fit different budgets and needs. We’ll walk you through what makes the most sense for your family during your free consultation.
When should I hire a doula?
For birth support, many families reach out during the second trimester, though it’s never too early to start the conversation. For postpartum care, booking during pregnancy helps ensure support is in place when your baby arrives.
Does insurance cover doula services in California?
Coverage is evolving, and some families may have access through Medi-Cal, Kaiser, or fertility-related benefits. We can help you understand your options during your consultation.
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