The role of a birth doula is to provide non-medical support, both physical and emotional, to a birthing woman and her family throughout pregnancy, and during and after labor.  The presence of a doula does not in any way replace the importance of the woman's partner or other support person(s). 

The goal of the doula is to enhance and support the family's participation in the birth process and to help the woman achieve a safe and satisfying birth.

I believe in birth as a natural process, and as a transformation for the mother and her family.  When informed of her choices a mother will choose the path that is right for her and her baby.  I offer encouraging support to whatever these choices may be.  It would be my privilege to be a part of your family's birth experience.  Every family has different needs and desires during their pregnancy and labor.  I will work with you to define what my potential role can be.  My doula care generally includes the following:

• Two prenatal visits and one postpartum follow-up visit (more visits can be added, if needed).

• Information and reassurance prior to labor, including breastfeeding and labor preparation.

• A lending library of books, pamphlets, and videos relating to birth and breastfeeding.

• Availability for questions and discussion during pregnancy.

• Assistance with clarification of birth choices and creation of a ‘Birth Plan’, if desired.

• Early labor support as needed (at home or hospital).

• 24 hour on-call availability for labor, beginning two weeks prior to the due date.

• Back-up doula arrangements, if necessary.

• Continuous care during active labor and during the immediate postpartum period.

• Assistance with birth photography and/or video, if desired.

• A written story about your child's birth.

• Postpartum and breastfeeding support, community resources and referrals.

The Effects of Doula Support

Studies have shown that with continuous doula support labors can be shorter, cesarean section rates are lower, the use of pain medications is less frequent, and the rate of interventions, especially at the time of delivery, is reduced.  The idea is that when women and their families are well informed of their choices in birth, and when they feel supported and empowered, they will come away from the experience satisfied and overjoyed.