BIRTH DOULA SERVICES
What is a Birth Doula?
The word "doula" comes from the Greek meaning "to serve". Birth Doula's serve and support expectant parents during pregnancy, labor, birth and immediate postpartum. Doulas provide physical, emotional and informational support.
Doulas are an integral part of your birth team, there to help you make informed choices and to feel comfortable and supported.
Doulas are an integral part of your birth team, there to help you make informed choices and to feel comfortable and supported.
Why are Birth Doulas Helpful?
Studies have shown that births supported by doulas have fewer complications, decreased use of pain medication and report that their overall birth experience was more positive.
See Evidence on: Doulas from EvidenceBasedBirth.com
See Evidence on: Doulas from EvidenceBasedBirth.com
Questions to Ask Your Birth Doula
- Has she given birth herself?
- If so, what were her birth experiences like?
- What kind of training has she had?
- How much experience does she have?
- What type of birth experiences has she had? (attended cesareans, VBAC's, twins, etc)
- Does she have backup available?
- What does she bring to a birth?
- Does she have time limits ...
- What is her philosophy of birth?
The best way to choose a doula is to remember that she will be providing you support at a time when you may feel vulnerable. Choose someone who resonates best with you and your family.
What does a Birth Doula do?
Before Your Birth
You will meet to get to know each other and your doula will become aware of your unique needs and preferences.
During Your Birth
During your labor, your doula will…
After Your Birth
This optional visit includes time to....
You will meet to get to know each other and your doula will become aware of your unique needs and preferences.
During Your Birth
During your labor, your doula will…
- Provide comfort measures during your labor such as massage & relaxation techniques which you will discuss during your prenatal visits
- Suggest positions for you when you are in labor as well as comfort strategies
- Provide support to your partner through suggestions on how to help you, reassurance, & encouragement
- Provide you with continuous presence, reassurance, & encouragement throughout your labor
- Ensure that your partner can be and remains the primary support person for the mother, if they choose to
- Work to ensure the environment remains relaxing and one in which you can feel safe and confident
- Provide information or explanation of medical and birth options during labor
- Work cooperatively with the health care team
- Take pictures or videos if desired, on either your camera or her own
- Assist with establishing initial breastfeeding and skin-to-skin bonding if needed
- Provide immediate postpartum support
After Your Birth
This optional visit includes time to....
- Address any concerns you may have about breastfeeding or your newborn
- Help you to process your birth experience
When Should I Hire a Birth Doula?
We believe the earlier the better, but contact us at any time in your pregnancy.
Investment
Rates will vary from doula to doula based on factors like trainings/certifications, experience, location and customizeable package options.
Interested in Birth Doula Services?
Contact us today to set up a free consultation!