My journey into birth work began when I became a mother.

It wasn't until I experienced pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum for myself that I truly began to understand the gaps that existed in maternity care. While welcoming our second baby into the world, I experienced a birth that left me feeling broken, unheard, and numb from trauma that could have been prevented.

I remember walking out of the hospital holding my beautiful baby and thinking, "No mom should ever leave the hospital feeling like this. There has to be a better way."

That moment planted a passion in my heart that never went away.

As I healed from postpartum mood disorders, I began to pray. I knew that I went through what I did for a reason so I began asking God to place me where He could use me. In February 2008, I began my studies in birth, and what started as a personal journey became a lifelong calling.

For the past 18+ years, I have had the privilege of walking alongside families through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum—educating, encouraging, and supporting them through one of the most transformative experiences of their lives

Birth matters. Your voice matters. Your story matters.

My hope is that every family I serve walks away knowing they were cared for deeply and reminded of just how powerful and amazing they truly are.

500+

18+

Years Experience

Families Supported

The Who Behind Smile Doula

My Why

Hello! My name is Kara Figueroa - I am so glad you are here!

I'm married to the best guy, and we have had the beautiful gift of experiencing labor & birth of 4 beautiful babies together.

When I'm not attending births or teaching classes, you'll usually find me barefoot, not sitting still, reading or listening to a book, sitting on the sidelines of a baseball field or talking about birth and breastfeeding (because let's be honest...I could talk about them for hours!). I also have the honor of homeschooling our daughter.

My faith in Jesus is the foundation of who I am and the reason I do what I do. It shapes how I love, how I serve, and how I care for every family who invites me into such a sacred season of their lives.

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:21

About Kara: