Find out what a doula does, why you might want one, and our Q & A, BELOW....
A doula is a Trained Professional
who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a mother during pregnancy, labor and delivery, and after birth [postpartum].
A doula provides support tailored to the mothers' specific needs so she can have the best experience possible!
Fun Facts: Doulas are associated with improved birth outcomes such as the following:
30-50%
Decrease in
C-Sections
25%
Shorter labor
40%
decrease in the use of Pitocin
60%
less requests for Epidural
AND...
better APGAR scores
higher breastfeeding rates
mothers report higher satisfaction with birth experience
What a doula does during Pregnancy:
A doula can be a listening ear when you have worries or concerns, help you work through any fears about labor, be someone you can rely on to hear you, understand, and provide resources/information when you need it.
A doula can provide research and information when preparing for labor so you can make informed decisions, can explain your options and explain medical procedures, help you write a birth plan that best explains your desires and wishes during labor, and help you not only write a birth plan, but prepare you to use techniques that will help you achieve your goals during labor. That way when you go in to give birth you have a better idea of what to expect, already have techniques in your pocket when you need them, and your Support team will be on the same page as you!
You will have...
- Informational Support:
information so you can make informed decisions that best fit YOU
- Birth planning
To make your whole experience smooth and as satisfying as possible
- Advocate
Doulas can support better communication between the mother and the medical team, to ensure the mother feels heard and her wishes are respected.
- Emotional Support
Reassurance, encouragement, and a calming presence throughout your journey
- Physical Support
This can include ideas and tips to help relieve pressure/pain during pregnancy, such as gentle movements, comfort measures, positions, and pressure points.
Check ins through call/text!
- Preparation:
Doulas can help you prepare not only for birth, but after birth, including guidance on healing and newborn care
want one of these services or more? contact us for a free consultation!
What a doula does during Labor and Delivery:
A doula can provide uninterrupted support throughout labor.
Providing encouragement, knowledge, comfort measures, and so much more!
You will have...
- Informational Support:
information to make informed decisions when needed, and reassurance for you and your partner.
- Advocate
Doulas can support better communication between the mother and the medical team, to ensure the mother feels heard and her wishes are respected during labor.
- Emotional Support
Reassurance, encouragement, and a calming presence throughout your journey
- Physical Support
This can include many techniques to help relieve pressure/pain, positions to encourage a faster delivery, breathing exercises, gentle movements, comfort measures, and pressure points.
want one of these services or more? contact us for a free consultation!
What a doula does after birth [postpartum]:
A doula's support doesn't end when the baby is born...
You will have...
- Informational Support
Guidance for healing after birth, newborn care, etc.
- Resources
Such as parenting classes, support groups, Postpartum depression, Lactation support, and professional help in many areas.
- Emotional Support
A listening ear, reassurance, and help navigating this new season.
Check ins through call or text!
- Physical Support
Some doulas are trained in Breastfeeding and can offer guidance and techniques. Some doulas provide in-home care, helping with household tasks, meal prep, newborn care, etc.
want one of these services or more? contact us for a free consultation!
"She's [Doula] NOT a luxury, she's a lifeline...
A doula isn't just 'nice to have', SHE'S THE ONLY ONE WHO WORKS FOR YOU...
...Your doctor may not be there for most of your labor.
Your nurse might be caring for 3 patients.
YOUR DOULA IS THE CONSTANT. THAT'S THE DIFFERENCE.
... YOU DON'T NEED PERMISSION TO HIRE ONE. YOU DON'T NEED A NATURAL BIRTH PLAN. YOU DON'T EVEN NEED TO BE SURE OF WHAT KIND OF BIRTH YOU WANT. YOU JUST NEED SOMEONE IN YOUR CORNER..."- BILL CHUN, MD
S
FAQ
I want my partner involved, how will a doula affect how he's involved?
Some people worry about how their partner will be involved if a doula is present, But here are the facts: Doulas can actually help your partner SUPPORT YOU BETTER! Some doulas are actually hired just to support the father and make sure he knows how to support you. Having a doula can decrease anxiety, fear of the unknowns, provide reassurance, and help him best support you by providing information that they hold as birth professionals.
Doulas can help him be the best support partner he can be because many times dads just don't know how.
We can help fathers just as much as we help mamas.
