The term "doula" comes from the Greek language, and means "maidservant." A labor/birth doula helps women get the most out of their birth experience. Doulas assist with education leading up to and during labor and provide on-site emotional and physical support to women during childbirth.
For centuries, women have been helping women during this important time in their lives. Childbirth is an amazing process--but almost never easy. The support and knowledge of a trained doula can make the process less scary and more empowering--for all involved!
Studies show that the presence of doulas lead to:
- 50% fewer cesarean deliveries
- 60% decrease in the request for epidurals
- 25% decrease in the length of labor
- 30% decrease in the use of forceps
- Increased success in breastfeeding
- Greater maternal satisfaction
Doulas do not make decisions for women, nor do we make any medical assessments. A doula's job is to support the laboring woman educationally, physically and emotionally to help her have the most positive birth experience possible.
* Prenatal Meetings
I will meet with you at least 2 times leading up to the birth to discuss your goals and wishes. I’ll help you develop a birth plan if you choose, and discuss the roles of each member of your birth team so that everyone can work together to achieve the birth experience you desire.
* Labor & Delivery
I will be on call 24-7 from 2 weeks before your due date to 2 weeks after. If the birth happens outside this window, I will make every effort to be there. My labor support is continuous and begins when you feel like you need assistance. I come to your home or the hospital--whichever you prefer, and stay until an hour or so after delivery. I will stay to help establish breastfeeding, if desired, and to answer any immediate questions you may have. I will also take any pictures or video that you might want.
* Birth Story
I will provide a personal account of your labor and delivery. These memories often fade as time passes, and a Birth Story can help make sure that you never forget one of the most important and pivotal times in the life of your family.
* Post Partum Visit
I will come to your house approximately 2 weeks after delivery to visit with you and your baby. This is a good opportunity to discuss the birth in detail, if you wish, and evaluate your feelings about it. I will answer any questions you may have at that time and provide any additional information.
Please contact me if you are interested in hearing more about me and my services.
I am a self-supporting professional. There are people offering doula services at significantly reduced prices. Some are still in training, or basically offering sliding scale services depending on your financial circumstances. I do offer this but on a very limited basis. Labor support is an underpaid profession that cannot attract or keep talented, skilled individuals, by sharply reducing fees. If you end up selecting a doula who is undercharging for her services, I strongly encourage you to pay her more than she is asking. She's worth it.
* Additional Services
- Pregnancy photography
- Custom video made from pictures take during labor, delivery and immediate post partum period