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.
