~ Please note that I am currently not taking doula clients. ~
My experience as a doula has been one of the most rewarding aspects
of the work I do. Witnessing the birth of another human being
is the most profound and spiritual of events. I feel fortunate
to be able to participate and help create an environment that
offers a gentle and natural passage into this world.
What is a Doula?
Doula is a Greek word that translates
as “a women supporting another during labor.”
 As
a doula, I provide continuous emotional, physical and, educational
support to families before, during and after birth. I ensure
you have the information you need to make informed decisions
as they arise throughout pregnancy and in labor, provide
reassurance and perspective to you and your partner, make
suggestions for labor progress, and assist with relaxation,
massage, positioning and other techniques for your comfort.
I am independent and self-employed. As
a doula, I work for you, not your caregiver or hospital.
I attend births in homes, birth centers and hospital settings.
Studies have shown that
having a doula may decrease:
50% reduction in cesarean rates
25% shorter labor
60% reduction in epidural requests
40% reduction in oxytocin (pitocin) use
30% reduction in narcotic use
40% reduction in forceps delivery
My services include the
following:
· two prenatal visits (not including
the interview)
· assistance with birth options and planning
· on-call for three weeks prior and two weeks after
your due date
· emotional, physical and educational support during
labor
· phone contact throughout pregnancy and after the
birth
· one post natal visit which includes teaching infant
massage
· a pediatric craniosacral therapy treatment soon
after the birth
After Birth
I usually remain with you for one hour
after birth or, until you are comfortable and your family
is ready for quiet time together. I can also assist with
initial breast feeding, settling in, preparing food, etc.
After birth, I like to meet within the
first week to see how your family is doing, review the birth,
admire your baby, follow up on infant care, community resources
and teach you infant massage.
What Doulas do not do
· Perform clinical tasks, such
as blood pressure, fetal heart checks, vaginal exams, and
other medical procedures. I am there to provide physical
comfort, emotional and educational support only.
· Make decisions for you. I will
help you get the information necessary to make an informed
decision.
· Speak to the staff instead of
you regarding matters where decisions are being made. I
will discuss your concerns and options with you, but you
or your partner will speak on your behalf to the clinical
staff.
|
