What is a Birth Doula? A Birth Doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a mother before, during and shortly after childbirth to help her achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible. dona.org
Information on Birth Doulas: Studies have shown when doulas attend births, labors are shorter and with fewer complications and babies breastfeed more easily. -Reduce the use of Pitocin by 31% -Decrease the risk of a Cesarean by 28% ( Recent studies have shown it to be closer to 60-90 % ) -Increase your chances of having a spontaneous vaginal birth by 12% -Decrease your use of pain medications by at least 9% -Decrease the chances of your newborn being admitted to the NICU by 14% evidencebasedbirth.com A Birth Doula: * Stays with the woman/partner through labor/delivery * Assists the woman in preparing and carrying out her plans for birth * Allows the woman's partner to participate at their comfort level * Provides emotional, physical and informational support along with advocacy so she can make informed decisions on her care * Facilitates communication between her partner and care provider team
As a Doula I do not:
Perform any clinical tasks
Make decisions for you
Speak on your behalf
Project any of my own beliefs on your birth experience
Birth Services Include:
Free Consultation: I would love to meet you and see if I'm a good fit and answer any questions you may have.
Prenatal Appointments: We will meet two times during pregnancy to discuss your desired birth, become more familiar with each other and go over what my role is as a doula for you. We will create a birth vision if needed during the first meeting.
Phone/email support: Once under contract, I will be available to you for phone and email support as you need it.
Labor/Birth support: I will join you and your birth partner when you are ready for support. I will stay with you for at least one hour after baby arrives to make sure breastfeeding is off to a good start and you are comfortable.
Postpartum Visit: I will set up two postpartum visits within one to three weeks after birth once you are settled to discuss your birth and help fill in any gaps that you have. We can discuss any support you may need and I can provide referrals for you.
Availability: I only take two to three clients per month! References available upon request!
Fees include: Free consultation Fee of $750-$950 I require a 300.00 retainer fee when signing the contract so I can reserved the time around your birth. The remaining balance is due at 36 weeks. I do accept payment plans!