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Newborn

What Is a Doula?

What is a Doula?

DONA International defines a doula as 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. Doulas serve as the bridge of communication between birthing body and their providers, assisting them to find their voice and advocate for the best care. A birth doula provides labor support via the four pillars of labor support: physical, emotional, informational, and advocacy.

What are the benefits of a Birth Doula? 

  • Less likely to need Pitocin

  • Less likely to have a cesarean birth

  • Less likely to use any pain medication

  • More likely to rate their childbirth experience positively

  • More family bonding and support for partners and siblings

  • Improved postpartum mental health

  • Decreased Anxiety

  • Increased Movement

  • Enhanced Relaxation

  • Lactation Support

A Birth Doula Is Not:

  • A medical professional. I am not giving medical advice or diagnosing condition. Please consult your provider

  • A midwife. I do not deliver babies nor catch them

  • Taking the place of the partner. The partners’ presence and role is vital (oxytocin connection). I support the entire family unit, that includes birthing body and partner.

  • Only useful for unmedicated births. We are useful for all types of births in all environments (medicated, unmedicated, vaginal, c-section, hospital birth, birthing center, home births… WE DO IT ALL!)

  • Making decisions for their clients. I will provide evidence-based resources to equip my clients to make the best-informed decision for their birth. It is YOUR birth on your terms, your way.

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