Childbirth Education – Doula Momma https://doulamommafl.com Prenatal, Child Birth, and Postpartum support for Jacksonville and the surrounding communities Sat, 11 Apr 2026 18:20:01 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://doulamommafl.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/cropped-tree-32x32.png Childbirth Education – Doula Momma https://doulamommafl.com 32 32 Birth and Postpartum Doula https://doulamommafl.com/ Thu, 30 Jan 2020 00:25:09 +0000 http://doulamommafl.com/?page_id=32 Birth and Postpartum Doula Hi, my name is Karen and I am birth and postpartum doula. I also am a…

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]]> Doula Momma, Jacksonville, FL

Birth and Postpartum Doula

Hi, my name is Karen and I am birth and postpartum doula. I also am a certified childbirth educator, lactation counselor and registered nurse. I live in Saint Johns, Florida.

Are you pregnant and looking for guidance on what to expect during your pregnancy and upcoming birth? Would you like help deciding on your birth preferences or birth plan? Are you nervous about the labor process and would like someone with you who can support you and your partner as you navigate this life changing event? Maybe you’re looking for help after your baby/babies arrive. I provide birth and postpartum doula services including lactation counseling and childbirth education in the greater Jacksonville area, including St. Augustine, Florida.

I was not familiar with doulas over 25 years ago when I had my children. Even though I successfully gave birth to my two boys, I would have had a more pleasant and less medically invasive birth experience if I had a doula. So, I’m happy to provide this service for other mommas no matter what your birthing plans are. I’ll work with you and your partner to provide the birth experience you desire.

I’m trained and certified as a birth doula through DONA International. I’ve taken Hypnobirthing classes and a Spinning Babies workshop. I’m also VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarian) certified. I’m a Certified Childbirth Educator and Certified Lactation Counselor. Plus, I’m a Registered Nurse with experience working in postpartum and newborn nursery. If you’re looking for an in-network Tricare provider, I may be able to offer you birth doula services and lactation counseling at no cost. I also work with Pomelo/The Doula Network, which allows me to offer services to those with certain Medicaid plans.

Would you like more information? To set up a free consultation, contact me.

Doula Momma, Jacksonville, FL

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]]> Resources for Moms and Moms to Be https://doulamommafl.com/resources-list/ Wed, 28 Jun 2023 20:18:31 +0000 https://doulamommafl.com/?page_id=247 Birthing Hospital Resources HCA Florida Memorial Hospital 3625 University Blvd S, Jacksonville, FL 32216 904-702-6100 Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside Family…

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Birthing Hospital Resources

HCA Florida Memorial Hospital
3625 University Blvd S, Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-702-6100

Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside Family Birth Place
4201 Belfort Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32216 
904-296-3700

Baptist Medical Center Clay
1771 Baptist Clay Dr, Fleming Island, FL 32003
904-516-1000

UF St. Johns/Flagler Hospital Birthing Center
400 Health Park Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32086
904-819-5155

Baptist Medical Center South
14550 Old Saint Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32258
904-271-6000

UF Health North
15255 Max Leggett Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32218
ufhealthjax.org/locations/uf-health-womens-specialists-north
904-427-0411

Children’s Hospitals

Wolfson’s Children’s Hospital
800 Prudential Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32207
904-202-8000

Baptist & Wolfson Town Center Emergency Room (ER)
4085 Town Center Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32246 
904-202-6800

Wolfson Children’s Emergency Room at Baptist South
14550 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32258
904-271-6060

Birth Centers

Transitions Birth Center
6885 Belfort Oaks Place suite 215
info@transitionsjax.com transitionsjax.com
904-990-0218

First Coast Birth Center
815 Stockton St, Jacksonville, FL 32204
firstcoastmidwives.com/
904-990-3616

Midwives

First Coast Midwifery Services
815 Stockton St, Jacksonville, FL 32204 firstcoastmidwives.com/
904-990-3619                                    

Sweet Grace Midwifery
sweetgracemidwifery.com
904-570-5792

Growing Families Midwifery Service
https://www.growingfamiliesmidwife.com
904-806-6240

Jacksonville Community Midwives
jacksonvillecommunitymidwives.com/home1
904-203-8559

Modern Midwives
modernmidwivesjax.com
904-834-1155

Full Circle Women’s Care
6871 Belfort Oaks Place, Jacksonville, Florida 32216 fullcirclejax.com
904-674-0022

UF Health Women’s Specialist North
15255 Max Leggett Pkwy Suite 4400, Jacksonville, FL 32218
ufhealthjax.org/locations/uf-health-womens-specialists-north
904-427-8898

North Florida Midwifery and Homebirth
Jessica Lakey, LM CPM
northfloridamidwiferyandhomebirth.com/
904-290-4114 

St. Augustine Ob/GYN
301 Health Park Blvd, Suite 219, St. Augustine, FL 32086
904-819-9898

Obstetricians

Full Circle Women’s Care 6600 Charing St Jacksonville, Florida 32216
904-674-0022

Dr Hyler Orange Park, Middleburg, and Fleming Island
904-264-1628

Dr. Wilkes SRB OB/Gyn
11945 San Jose Blvd Ste 400 Jacksonville, FL 32223
904-262-5333

UF Health Women’s Specialist North
15255 Max Leggett Pkwy Suite 4400, Jacksonville, FL 32218
904-427-8898

Dr. Glas, River City OBGYN
836 Prudential Drive, Ste #1103 Jacksonville, FL 32207
rcobgyn.com/
904-398-7654

Childbirth Educators

Karen Leishman
krleishman@gmail.com
doulamommfl.com 
904-662-6886

Erica Shulse thehappybabyny.com Also provides prenatal/postpartum coaching, nutrition coaching, and virtual postpartum support

Evidence Based Birth evidencebasedbirth.com/childbirth-class/

Mommy Labor Nurse mommylabornurse.com/spinningbabies.com/

Bringing Baby Home class, Janet MciLroy, M.A., BCMHC
Jacksonville, FL 32266
904-514-2523

Baby Bootcamp, New OB, Prepared Childbirth, Hypnobirthing®, Breastfeeding, Infant Massage, NAS Jax
https://jacksonville.tricare.mil/Patient-Resources/Classes/
904-542-2229

VBAC Support Groups

thevbacklink.com 

International Cesarean Awareness Network ican-online.org/support/
1-800-686-ICAN (4226)

VBAC.com 

Abused women’s shelters/support groups

Hubbard House 24/7 Domestic Violence Hotline, available by phone at
904-354-3114 or by text at 904-210-3698.

Women’s Center of Jacksonville 5644 Colcord Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32211
904-722-3000

Birth Doulas

Doula Momma of NE Florida
doulamommafl.com
904-662-6886

Carolyn Houser Your Vision Doula
301-249-4052

Birthing with Jane birthingwithjane.com
904-349-0587

The Doula Network:-Medicaid provided doulas  thedoulanetwork.com

Natalie Beloved Birth Doula Services belovedbirthdoulaservices.com
904-521-5208

Doula Vonda Birth Services doulavonda.com
904-599-1058

Breastfeeding support groups/clinic/classes

NAS JAX Birth and Breastfeeding classes jacksonville.tricare.mil/Patient-resources/Classe/
904-542-BABY (2229) 

Breastfeeding support group baptistjax.com Free/in person

UF Health Jax Breastfeeding
101 Free/virtual class
ufhealthjax.org/community/support-groups-and-classes

Mommy Mingle UF Health North (meets 2nd Tuesday of month) Free/in person breastfeeding and postpartum support group ufhealthjax.org/community/support-groups-and-classes.aspx#childbirth-and-parenting

Lactation Consultants/Counselors

Doula Momma of NE Florida LLC doulamommafl.com Karen, CLC (Tricare)

Lactation Lady Ellen, IBCLC lactationladyellen.com

Coastal Lactation coastallactation.com/ Kristin, IBCLC 
904-568-0581

Community Lactation communitylactation.com/ Amy Johnston, IBCLC
904-321-9089

Sunshine Lactation sunshinelactation.com/ Jess Willis, IBCLC (Tricare)
904-323-1418

Stephanie Vine, CLC Visiting Nurse stephanie.vine@nmcrs.org Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Kings Bay, GA
912-464-0041

LeLeche League of Florida virtual meetings lllflorida.com/virtual

Tongue/Lip Tie Correction

Dr. Bright Bright Smiles Pediatric Dentist 196 Everest Ln, Ste 1 St. Johns, FL 32259
904-584-9004 Also has Yulee office

Gary Myers Pediatric Dentist 3200 Old Jennings Rd, Middleburg and 3267 Hodges Blvd #13, Jacksonville
904-505-2010

Dr. Daniel Wohl ENT Sunbeam Rd Suite 403, Jacksonville 32257 
904-262-7368

Child Abuse Protection Agencies

Florida Department of Children and Families myflfamilies.com
1-800-962-2873

Exchange Club Family Center exchangeclubfamilycenter.com 3119 Spring Glen Road, Suite 111 Jacksonville FL 32207-5921
904-306-9318

Family doctors/pediatricians

Rainbow Pediatric Center 3055 County Rd 210 St. Johns, FL 32259
904-223-9100

Mandarin Pediatrics 14810 Old St. Augustine Road, Suite 106 Jacksonville, FL 32258
904-268-7701

Carithers Pediatric Group 7741 Point Meadows Drive Suite 207 Jacksonville FL 32256
904-997-0023
2121 Park St, Jacksonville, FL
904-387-6200

Flip Flops and Lollipops Pediatrics 96279 Brady Point Rd Suite C Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
904-572-1884

ThriveWell Pediatrics, LLC 1539 Parental Home Rd, suite 5, Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-944-5437

Bluebird Pediatrics
bluebirdpeds.com
904-747-0797

Perinatal loss support groups/bereaved families support groups

Angels for Allison 4155 Oxford Avenue Jacksonville, FL 32210
904-312-9490

Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep Photography headquarters@nilmdts.org
720-283-3339

Community PedsCare
904-427-6505

Postpartum Support International
postpartum.net/get-help/psi-online-support-meetings/

Janet MciLroy, M.A., BCMHC Postpartum Support International
Jacksonville, FL 32266
psidirectory.com/listing/janet-mcilroy.html
904-514-2523

Star Legacy Foundation
Family Support for Stillbirth & Perinatal Loss | Star Legacy Foundation

Postpartum Doulas/Support Resources

Doula Momma of Northeast Florida
doulamommafl.com
904-662-6886

Doula Vonda Birth Services
904-599-1058

Nurse & Nurture (overnight baby nurses) Florida Nurses | Nurse & Nurture (nurseandnurture.com)
404-835-7580

Ludimila (Mila) LaFleur (newborn specialist/nanny) provides daytime and overnight care in your home for ages 0-2 in the Northwest St. Johns area.
508-377-2295

Postpartum depression resources and support groups

New moms support group baptistjax.com Free/virtual

Janet MciLroy, M.A., BCMHC Postpartum Support International
Jacksonville, FL 32266 psidirectory.com/listing/janet-mcilroy.html
904-514-2523

Grace House Counseling Center North Jax
422 New Berlin Rd Jacksonville, FL 32218
904-269-0886

Mommy Mingle UF Health North (meets 2nd Tuesday of month) https://ufhealthjax.org/community/support-groups-and-classes.aspx#childbirth-and-parenting

Postpartum Support International postpartum.net/get-help/psi-online-support-meetings
24-Hr Helpline: call or text 1.800.944.4773

Brave Health Online Mental Health Treatment – Brave Health (bebravehealth.com)

Chiropractor Resources

Thrive Family Chiro Christina Padilla jaxmobilechiropractor.com
904-437-4546

Vitality Family Chiropractic & Wellness 3636 University Blvd South, Suite B3 Jacksonville, FL
904-434-3465

Revolution Chiropractic 14866 Old St. Augustine Rd Ste 113, Jacksonville, FL 32258
904-348-0039

Blooming Bellies Chiropractic 8833 Perimeter Park Blvd STE 902 Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-479-0363

Vibrant Life Health Center 11798 San Jose Blvd STE 2, Jacksonville, FL 32223
904-683-8177

Slainte Chiropractic 2370 3rd St S #1, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
904-718-6330

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Brooks Rehabilitation
https://brooksrehab.org/services/physical-therapy/pelvic-health/

SB Physical Therapy and Wellness, LLC
/https://www.sbphysicaltherapyandwellness.com/
904-655-9094

Kara Hogmire, PT DPT upliftpelvichealthpt.com 904-742-0306 (Travels to you)

Massage Therapy Resources

Mandarin Massage 3956 Sunbeam Rd #3, Jacksonville, FL 32257
904-874-9061

Little Bellies Ultrasound & Pregnancy Spa 4372 Southside Blvd suite 206
904-270-9952

Teen Parent Support Groups

Children’s Home Society of Florida chsfl.org/services/for-parents/healthy-families/
904-493-7744

Teen Parent Service Center Duval County Public Schools dcps.duvalschools.org/Page/18840

Maternity Clothes

Emergency Pregnancy Services 1637 King Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204
904-308-7510

Clothes Mentor 11112 San Jose Blvd Suite 5 Jacksonville, Florida 32223
904-527-3382

Goodwill Jacksonville, FL   goodwill.org/locator/

Prenatal/Postpartum Exercise Classes

Yoga | Classes | Jacksonville | Riverside (solunayogaspa.com) Prenatal and postpartum yoga
904-680-7344

Jax Pilates by Jen jaxpilatesbyjen.com/
904-571-5599

Naturopathic Clinic

Balanced Healing of Jacksonville 8825 Perimeter Park Blvd #204, Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-420-8139

Early intervention programs for babies/kids with special needs 

Wolfson Children’s Rehabilitation – Autism and Neurodevelopment Center
904-346-0394

Early Learning Coalition of Duval elcduval.org
904-208-2044

Bold Child Co. Pediatric occupational therapy. physical therapy. feeding therapy. developmental resources 14444 Beach Blvd #28, Jacksonville, FL 32250 hello@boldchildco.com boldchildco.com/ 

Growing Together Behavioral Center gtbjax.org/ school for autism
904-556-7330

Community Services & Programs

Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Budget for Baby Workshop, Visiting nurses, pumping class, postpartum support for active and retired navy/marines www.nmcrs.org 

First Year Baby Safety Essentials/CPR baptistjax.com Free/virtual

findhelp.org/ find food assistance, help paying bills, and other free or reduced cost programs

Emergency Pregnancy Services 1637 King Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204 904-308-7510, 6903 Merrill Road Jacksonville, FL 32277
904-446-9009
2300 Park Avenue Suite 204, Orange Park, FL 32073
904-215-2797

211/United Way of Northeast Florida

NE FL Healthy Start Coalition reduces infant mortality, improves children’s health (nefhealthystart.org)

Big Brothers Big Sisters of St Johns County 1400 Old Dixie Hwy Saint Augustine, FL 32084 bbbsstjohns.org
904-829-9986

BBBS of Northeast Florida 40 East Adams St., Suite 220 Jacksonville, FL 32202 bbbsnefl.org
904-727-9797

Pace Center for Girls Thompson-Weaver Building 2933 University Blvd N Jacksonville, FL 32211
904-448-8002

Jewish Family & Community Services  jfcsjax.org
904-448-1933

Lutheran Social Services of Northeast Florida 4615 Philips Hwy, Jacksonville, FL 32207
904-448-5995

Addiction Services & Support Groups

Azalea Project Healthy Start 157 E. 8th Street, Suite 119 Jacksonville, Florida 32206
904.359.2520 x302

Stepping Stone Center for Recovery 1815 Corporate Square Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32216
855-947-2320

Beaches Recovery 390 16th Ave S, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
866-605-0532

Evidence Based Resources

Evidencebasedbirth.com

Cochrane Library (summaries are free) Cochrane.org

PubMed (summaries are free; sometimes links to free full texts

PubMed Central (all free full text articles)

MedLine medlineplus.gov

Childbirth Connection childbirthconnection.org

Midwife Thinking midwifethinking.com

VBAC Facts vbacfacts.com/

verywellfamily.com/

Helpful websites/podcasts

Evidence Based Birth Podcast and website    evidencebasedbirth.com/

Mommy Labor Nurse website and podcast    mommylabornurse.com/

Spinning Babies-Comfort in Pregnancy and Easier Birth  spinningbabies.com/

(Daily Essentials-exercises to prepare your body for labor/birth) https://www.spinningbabies.com/pregnancy-birth/daily-activities/

Mamma Natural-Pregnancy, Babies, Parenting & Health Tips  mamanatural.com/

lactationtraining.com/resources/educational-materials/handouts-parents

kellymom.com Breastfeeding & Parenting

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]]> Interested in Doula or other birth related services? https://doulamommafl.com/contact-us/ Mon, 23 Oct 2023 23:23:53 +0000 https://doulamommafl.com/?page_id=384 Please fill out my contact form below for more information regarding Birth Doula, Postpartum Doula, Childbirth Education, or Lactation support…

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]]> Please fill out my contact form below for more information regarding Birth Doula, Postpartum Doula, Childbirth Education, or Lactation support services.

Contact Form
Preferred Contact Method (*)
Estimated Due Date (*)

Email: krleishman at gmail dot com






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]]> Doulas and Midwives https://doulamommafl.com/doulas-and-midwives/ Sun, 03 May 2020 21:07:38 +0000 https://doulamommafl.com/?p=87 Doulas and midwives play distinct yet complementary roles in the realm of childbirth, offering support and guidance to expectant mothers…

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]]> Doulas and midwives play distinct yet complementary roles in the realm of childbirth, offering support and guidance to expectant mothers in unique ways. While both professions revolve around assisting women during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum periods, they differ significantly in their scope of practice, training, and responsibilities.

Midwives are trained healthcare professionals who specialize in providing medical care and assistance throughout the childbirth process. They possess formal education in nursing and/or midwifery, enabling them to offer clinical expertise, perform medical examinations, administer medications, and conduct deliveries. Midwives often work in hospitals, birthing centers, or provide home birth services, overseeing the entire childbirth journey, from prenatal care to postnatal support. Their focus extends beyond emotional support to include clinical assessments and interventions, ensuring the health and safety of both mother and baby during childbirth.

Conversely, doulas primarily offer non-medical, emotional, educational, and physical support to expectant mothers before, during, and after childbirth. Unlike midwives, doulas do not have medical training or authority to perform clinical procedures or make medical decisions. Instead, they provide continuous emotional reassurance, comfort measures, advocacy, and practical guidance to help women navigate the childbirth experience with confidence and empowerment. Doulas prioritize creating a supportive environment, offering encouragement, relaxation techniques, and assisting with birth plans, ensuring that mothers feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout the birthing process.

In essence, while midwives focus on providing comprehensive medical care and ensuring safe childbirth outcomes, doulas specialize in emotional support, advocacy, and enhancing the overall childbirth experience for mothers and their families. Both professions contribute invaluable support to expectant mothers, each offering a unique set of skills and expertise to facilitate a positive and empowering childbirth experience.

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]]> VBAC/TOLAC? https://doulamommafl.com/vbac-tolac/ Mon, 07 Sep 2020 22:11:49 +0000 https://doulamommafl.com/?p=112 VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) and TOLAC (Trial of Labor After Cesarean) are terms encountered in discussions surrounding childbirth, particularly…

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]]> VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) and TOLAC (Trial of Labor After Cesarean) are terms encountered in discussions surrounding childbirth, particularly among women who have previously undergone a cesarean section (C-section). VBAC refers to the delivery of a baby through the vaginal canal after a previous C-section. TOLAC specifically denotes the attempt to have a vaginal birth after a cesarean. These options offer women who had a prior C-section the possibility of a vaginal delivery, providing they meet certain criteria and are suitable candidates.

One of the primary considerations for VBAC and TOLAC is the safety of both the mother and the baby. While vaginal birth is generally associated with fewer complications and faster recovery compared to C-sections, there are risks. These risk can include uterine rupture. Uterus rupture is a rare but serious complication where the C-section scar on the uterus tears during labor. Healthcare providers carefully assess factors such as the reason for the previous C-section, the type of uterine incision, and the presence of any medical conditions that may affect the likelihood of a successful VBAC or TOLAC.

The decision to pursue VBAC or TOLAC involves discussions between the expectant mother and her healthcare team. They will weigh the potential benefits and risks based on individual circumstances. Several factors must be considered, such as maternal age, medical history, and the interval between pregnancies. Empowering women with the knowledge and support to make informed decisions is crucial in ensuring positive outcomes.

Vaginal birth after cesarean delivery VBAC – ACOG

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]]> Jacksonville and Surrounding Communities https://doulamommafl.com/jacksonville/ Thu, 14 Mar 2024 19:39:09 +0000 https://doulamommafl.com/?page_id=400 Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and their surrounding communities offer wonderful environments to raise and grow a family. Jacksonville’s family-friendly neighborhoods provide…

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]]> Jacksonville and Surrounding Communities

Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and their surrounding communities offer wonderful environments to raise and grow a family. Jacksonville’s family-friendly neighborhoods provide safe spaces, excellent schools, and numerous parks. With a thriving job market, parents find many opportunities to support their families. Jacksonville’s beaches, museums, and festivals offer endless activities for kids and parents alike.

St. Augustine, rich in history and charm, adds a special touch to family life. The city’s quiet streets, welcoming community, and historic sites provide a peaceful, educational backdrop for children. The beaches of St. Augustine are a perfect place for family outings, while the city’s small-town feel gives kids room to explore.

Both cities prioritize education and outdoor spaces. Schools in the area are known for strong academics and supportive environments. Nature trails, beaches, and state parks give families the chance to stay active together.

The balance of urban excitement in Jacksonville and the historic charm of St. Augustine offers a blend of opportunity and tranquility. Families can enjoy the best of both worlds—plenty of job opportunities, cultural experiences, and the comfort of a close-knit community, making it an ideal region to grow and thrive.

Service Areas

Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville Beach, FL

Saint Johns (St. Johns), FL

Saint Augustine (St. Augustine), FL

Orange Park, FL

Green Cove Springs, FL

Jacksonville Beach, FL

Ponte Vedra, FL

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]]> HypnoBirthing? https://doulamommafl.com/hypnobirthing/ Sun, 16 Feb 2020 19:46:30 +0000 http://doulamommafl.com/?p=57 HypnoBirthing, a childbirth education program that emphasizes the use of self-hypnosis, relaxation techniques, and deep breathing, offers numerous benefits to…

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]]> HypnoBirthing, a childbirth education program that emphasizes the use of self-hypnosis, relaxation techniques, and deep breathing, offers numerous benefits to expectant mothers. One of the primary advantages is the significant reduction in fear and anxiety associated with childbirth. By focusing on positive birthing experiences, HypnoBirthing helps mothers approach labor with a calm and confident mindset. This can lead to a more relaxed and comfortable birthing process, as the body responds better to labor when it’s not hindered by stress and fear.

Another major benefit of HypnoBirthing is the potential for a shorter labor duration. The relaxation and breathing techniques taught in HypnoBirthing classes encourage the body to release natural endorphins and other hormones. These hormones help facilitate the progression of labor. The absence of fear and tension allows muscles to work more efficiently, often resulting in a faster and smoother delivery. Many HypnoBirthing practitioners report experiencing fewer medical interventions, such as inductions or cesarean sections, which can further contribute to a quicker recovery post-birth.

HypnoBirthing also promotes a deeper connection between the mother and her birthing partner. Partners are actively involved in the process, learning how to provide effective support and encouragement during labor. This collaborative approach creates a more positive and empowering birthing environment. The partner’s presence and participation can enhance a mother’s sense of comfort, leading to a more harmonious birthing experience.

Lastly, HypnoBirthing can lead to improved postpartum outcomes. The emphasis on relaxation and positive mental imagery during pregnancy can help reduce the risk of postpartum depression and anxiety. Mothers who practice HypnoBirthing often report feeling more in control and satisfied with their birthing experience. This satisfaction can contribute to a smoother transition into motherhood. These techniques offer benefits beyond childbirth, managing stress and promoting overall well-being for both the mother and her baby.

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]]> The Benefits of a Doula https://doulamommafl.com/ths-benefits-of-a-doula/ Sun, 29 Mar 2020 14:36:34 +0000 http://doulamommafl.com/?p=76 Doulas are trained professionals providing continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a mother before, during, and just after childbirth.…

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]]> Doulas are trained professionals providing continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a mother before, during, and just after childbirth. The benefits of a doula include a significant reduction in the likelihood of medical interventions during labor, such as cesarean sections or the use of pain-relief medications. Studies have consistently shown that mothers supported by doulas have shorter labors, fewer complications, and higher rates of spontaneous vaginal births, indicating the profound impact of continuous support on the physiological process of childbirth.

A doula provides unwavering emotional support to mothers and their partners throughout the birthing journey. They offer reassurance, encouragement, and empathy, helping to alleviate fears and anxieties by promoting a sense of empowerment and confidence in the birthing process. This emotional bolstering can be crucial during moments of uncertainty or when unexpected challenges arise.

Doulas play a vital role in advocating for the mother’s preferences. They ensure that her voice is heard amidst the flurry of medical procedures and decisions in a hospital setting. This advocacy not only enhances the mother’s sense of agency and autonomy but also fosters a collaborative and respectful relationship with the healthcare team.

The support provided by doulas also encompasses the postpartum period. Doulas offer guidance and assistance with breastfeeding, newborn care, and emotional adjustment. They can also help with the physical and emotional demands of parenthood.

Birth and Postpartum Doulas provide evidence-based information and advocacy, including:

  • Assistance with planning: helping parents make informed choices based on what they value
  • Provide resources: connecting families with additional resources and support
  • Facilitating effective communication between families and the healthcare team

Benefits of a Birth & Postpartum Doula

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]]> What is a doula? https://doulamommafl.com/what-is-a-doula/ Thu, 06 Feb 2020 17:11:51 +0000 http://doulamommafl.com/?page_id=36 What is a Doula? “A trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a mother before, during and shortly…

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]]> What is a Doula?

“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 International

A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a mother before, during, and shortly after childbirth. The role of a doula is to offer non-medical assistance, focusing on comfort, encouragement, and reassurance to the birthing mother. They utilize techniques such as massage, breathing exercises, and positioning to help manage pain and facilitate labor progress. By offering personalized support and advocating for the mother’s preferences, doulas aim to enhance the birthing experience, fostering a sense of empowerment and reducing anxiety.

Beyond labor and delivery, doulas often provide postpartum support, helping new parents adjust to life with a newborn. This support can include assistance with breastfeeding, newborn care education, and emotional support during the transition into parenthood. Postpartum doulas may also help with light household tasks and offer guidance on infant sleep and soothing techniques. By addressing both the physical and emotional needs of new mothers, doulas play a crucial role in promoting positive birth and early parenting experiences, contributing to overall maternal and family well-being.

What Can I provide as a Doula?

While I do not provide medical services as a birth doula, I can provide:

  • References to local services, professionals, facilities, classes and support groups
  • Sources to use for finding evidence-based information
  • Assistance in writing and carrying out your birth plan
  • Guidance to determine when you should head to the hospital or birth center
  • Assistance in facilitating communication with clinical care providers
  • Specific techniques and comfort measures to reduce discomfort, provide relaxation and allow the natural birth process to work
  • Assistance with breastfeeding if desired

I am a calm and caring person and have attended and successfully completed the DONA Approved Birth Doula Training and the Birth Education Advocacy Mentorship (BEAM) Program. I am certified through DONA International. I am also a certified childbirth educator and have attended Hypnobirthing classes as a doula and a Spinning Babies workshop. I would love to help guide you and your family through this amazing time in your life.

To set up a free consultation, contact me.

Doula Momma: Mother and father holding their newborn's little feet.

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]]> Doula Services https://doulamommafl.com/my-services/ Thu, 06 Feb 2020 20:31:42 +0000 http://doulamommafl.com/?page_id=44 I offer, prenatal, childbirth, and postpartum doula services. As your birth doula, I will meet with you and your partner…

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I offer, prenatal, childbirth, and postpartum doula services. As your birth doula, I will meet with you and your partner at least once before labor to become acquainted, discuss your birth history and plans and how we might work best together.

When you’re in active labor I will provide continuous non medical support including emotional and physical comfort both at home and at the hospital or birth center. I will remain with you after birth and help with initial breastfeeding if desired. I also love photography and will be happy to take some raw photos during labor and delivery if you like at no extra charge.

After birth I will meet with you at your home to review your birth, see how you are doing and answer any questions you may have.

As your postpartum doula, I will come to your home day or night to help care for you and your baby(s). I can provide emotional support, a listening ear and baby care as well as light housekeeping, dishes, laundry and simple meal prep (as time permits) on an hourly basis. If you would like any other services, feel free to discuss them with me.

I am also part of the Doula Network which covers certain clients with United Health Care, Molina and Sunshine Medicaid plans. Check out their website for more information. https://thedoulanetwork.com/ I am also a provider with Tricare for birth doula and lactation services and can accept those with Tricare Select or Prime. Contact me to determine eligibility.

My husband and I also recently started a placenta encapsulation business called Umay Placenta Treasures to include placenta prints and umbilical cord keepsakes. Check out our website in progress at UmayPlacenta.com

To set up a free consultation, contact me.

Doula Momma: Baby snuggling against his mother

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