What is a birth doula?
A birth doula is a woman trained and experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after childbirth.The word “doula” comes from ancient Greek, meaning “Woman’s servant.” Throughout history and in much of the world today, women support a women through labor and birth, giving back rubs and providing continuous emotional support. Like their historical counterparts, DONA International birth doulas know how to help a woman in labor feel better.

What effects does the presence of a doula have on the mother?
When a doula is present during and after childbirth, women report greater satisfaction with their birth experience, make more positive assessments of their babies, have fewer cesareans and requests for medical intervention, and less postpartum depression.

What effects do the presence of doulas have on babies?
Studies have shown that babies born with doulas present tend to have shorter hospital stays with fewer admissions to special care nurseries, breastfeed more easily and have more affectionate mothers in the postpartum period.

Won't my partner and nurses at the hospital provide enough support? 

Partners are wonderful support, however it can be very difficult to watch the person you love in pain. They do not have the calm perspective and experience a woman needs and a doula has. Nurses are also excellent caregivers, however much of their attention is given to clinical responsibilities and shifts may change several times during your labor. A doula is a familiar person, there to support you and your partner continually.

 

Additionally, especially with first time mothers, it can be hard to know when to go to the hospital. As your doula I will come to your home if you so desire, to attend your early labor, so that you can labor within the comfort of your own home as long as possible.

 

 

Will my partner feel left out if we hire a doula?

 

A doula is supportive to both the mother and her partner, and plays a crucial role in helping a partner assume the role he/she is comfortable with. A doulas support is invaluble to fathers, reassuring them and allowing them to take a break if needed.

 

 

How do you determine your fee?

    Because of the unpredictable nature of birth I only take 2-3 clients a month. I am on call for up to 3 weeks, 24/7 for each baby. Once labor begins I can expect to spend anywhere from 6 to 36 hours with them, giving continual support.  Although I am dedicated to this work, being on-call all the time requires a very high level of personal sacrifice, including a willingness to be beeped awake after half an hour of sleep to go attend a labor for the next 36 hours.  In addition I generally spend another 6-8 hours with a couple before their due date and after the birth, plus emails and phone calls. Given my experience, training and all of the amazing benefits of having a doula, you can be assured that the money you spend is worth it.

If my fee is more than you can afford right now, I am open to payment options or I can help you find another doula who meets your needs.

Please feel free to contact me with any additional questions or concerns.