Birth Nest | Joanna Krolak

Hi, I’m Joanna — a mother of two curious boys (4 and 2), a certified birth and postpartum doula, and a woman who believes that the way we are supported in birth and the early postpartum period shapes how we step into motherhood.

My work embraces the full spectrum of the perinatal journey: from pregnancy and birth to the tender weeks and months after – supporting families in a way that is continuous, intuitive, and deeply human. I believe the postpartum period is not just a time of recovery, but a sacred transformation where the parent is born anew alongside their baby. With a nurturing presence and deep care, I offer emotional, physical, and practical support to help you feel held, grounded, and connected as you find your way.
In my postpartum care, I focus on creating a calm, restorative space where mothers can slow down, rest, and be cared for. This might mean preparing nourishing meals and herbal teas, guiding gentle belly binding, supporting breastfeeding, or simply holding space for emotions that surface in those fragile first weeks. I trust the wisdom of the body and respond to what’s needed in the moment, whether that’s quiet presence, a listening ear, help around the house or gentle hands offering relief and grounding touch.

Postpartum support isn’t about doing more… it’s about being there: mothering the mother, helping her breathe, and reminding her that she doesn’t need to hold it all. When a mother is cared for, her baby feels it too. The whole family softens.

Originally from Poland, I’ve lived in Dublin, New York, and Amsterdam with my Brazilian husband before settling in Hilversum in 2022. Those years of building a life far from family taught me the true value of connection, community, and being held when everything feels new and unknown.

My path into doula work began with my first pregnancy, when I became deeply fascinated by birth and the strength of women. Birth transformed me tremendously. Postpartum broke me into many pieces. And from that experience came a calling — to offer the kind of support I had been craving back then: gentle, grounded, and real.

Having lived and become a mother far from home, I understand how lonely it can feel when your village isn’t nearby. That’s why I’m so passionate about community, creating spaces where mothers and families can connect, feel seen, and remember that they are not alone.

When I’m not supporting families, you’ll find me enjoying time with my boys, cooking vibrant meals, moving my body through yoga or Pilates, dancing, or wandering through nature.

Wherever you are on your journey — pregnancy, birth, or postpartum — I’m here to walk beside you with warmth, steadiness, and compassion.