What is a doula?

2010-03-18T13:17:00.000-07:00

What is a doula?

The word "doula" comes from the ancient Greek meaning "a woman who serves" and is now used to refer to a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after birth; or who provides emotional and practical support during the postpartum period.
Studies have shown that when doulas attend birth, labors are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier and they breastfeed more easily.

A Birth Doula

Recognizes birth as a key experience the mother will remember all her life
Understands the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of a woman in labor
Assists the woman in preparing for and carrying out her plans for birth
Stays with the woman throughout the labor
Provides emotional support, physical comfort measures and an objective viewpoint, as well as helping the woman get the information she needs to make informed decision
Facilitates communication between the laboring woman, her partner and her clinical care providers
Perceives her role as nurturing and protecting the woman's memory of the birth experience
Allows the woman's partner to participate at his/her comfort level

Research evidence shows that the quality services of a postpartum doula can ease the transition that comes with the addition of a baby to a family, improve parental satisfaction and reduce the risk of mood disorders.

(DONA International)

Birth Doula film from Alex Wakeford on Vimeo.

Birthing Goddess Doula Services

2010-03-17T12:05:00.001-07:00

Hallie and Shelly
Originally uploaded by Scott Greid

Before birth

We will usually have 2 to 3 prenatal visits to get to know you better, talk about your birth plans, answer any questions and prepare for the big day!
Email/phone consultations: I am always available for questions, concerns or just a quick chat about how you are doing. I would encourage you to keep me updated on your pregnancy.

Going into labour and birth

When you feel you are going into labour, you can call me anytime. I can meet you at your home or at the hospital. I provide support for both homebirths and hospital births.
I will stay with you during the entire course of your labour and provide physical and emotional support through massage, position changes and other comfort measures. My role is to help you keep your rythm and adapt to the changes of labour in a supported and comfortable manner and make informed choices.
For partners: I provide information, support and will let you know how you can best support the labouring woman and how to best interface with the caregivers
Stages of labour
When things take an unexpected turn: I will help you make informed decisions and stay calm and focused
I you wish, I can take photographs of your birth and record notes for you to keep after.

Cesareans and VBACs

I can provide support for women who are planning a cesarean or a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). Cesareans come with their own particular challenges and support can be crucial to ensure you have the best possible outcomes.

After giving birth

I will typically stay with you for an hour or two after the birth until you and baby are settled in and comfortable
I can provide support to initiate breastfeeding
I will usually do one postpartum visit within the first weeks after birth to check on you and baby and give you your birth notes and photos
I can provide information on safe baby-wearing, breastfeeding and attachment parenting
I can also provide referrals to post-partum doulas, lactation consultants and other health professionals
I will remain available by phone or email for questions and chats

Disclaimer:

I am not a midwife or a nurse, I do not perform vaginal exams, check blood pressure or fetal heart rates.

I do not make decisions for you. I can help you understand some of the information provided by your caregivers but will not try to influence you in any way.

I respect client confidentiality and will not disclose any of your personal information, photos or anything shared during our visits without your consent.

I work with all women, regardless of age, culture, religion, sexual orientation or family situation.

Fees:

Available upon request. Sliding scale available for lower-income families