What is a Doula?
A Birth Doula is a woman who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support before, during, and after childbirth. A Doula is an advocate for a birthing woman and her partner and helps her manifest the birth she envisioned. Studies have proven that women with Doulas have shorter labors, fewer interventions, fewer cesareans, greater breastfeeding success, less postpartum depression and healthier babies!
In no way does a doula replace a partner. A doula is there to help assist both the laboring woman and her partner so that both can feel as comfortable, empowered and supported as possible before, during and after the birth of their child. Many partners are eager to be involved during labor and birth. Others, no less loving or committed to their partner's well being, find it difficult to navigate in uncharted waters. With a doula, a partner can participate as much as is possible and comfortable for him/her. I always think of the image of a triangle: The laboring woman, her partner, and the doula work together in a way that the doula can help the partner by suggesting hands-on techniques such as gentle massage, applying a warm or cold compress, light dancing, and loving encouragement, so that the couple can work together closely and intimately with the doula acting as more of a guide in the process.
Results of having a doula’s support:
- 50% reduction in the cesarean rate
- 25% shorter labor
- 60% reduction in epidural requests
- 40% reduction in oxytocin use
- 30% reduction in analgesia use
- 40% reduction in forceps delivery
- Overall significantly increased postpartum maternal satisfaction
What Services do I offer?
- #1:We will have a free initial visit at your home or mine, where we will simply get to know one another, discuss freely, and determine whether or not we might be an ideal fit.
- #2:I offer complete Physical, Emotional and Educational support throughout our entire doula/client relationship.
- #3:I will stay with you for as long as you desire postpartum to help you in any way desired, and I always schedule a postpartum visit when you are ready and a birth story I have written specifically for you.
Many women wonder why have a doula if you have a husband or partner by your side? The answer is that a doula is actually someone who is not only there to emotionally and physically support you through labor and delivery but is actually trained to do so.
Nurses and doctors can get distracted by medical tasks and other patients but a doula will be by your side all the way through your labor and delivery journey. We offer a depth of knowledge about the birthing experience and can guide you in several comfort measures that include breathing techniques, massage, aroma therapy,using a birth ball, etc. You and your family are entitled to have the most empowering, transformative and extraordinary birthing experience possible. I would be honored to work with you as your doula to further help make this possible.
