Doula Birth Services

My Birth Philosophy

I offer support from conception to birth to child's first cold. I feel that true health comes from a balanced lifestyle that includes eating well, staying active and enjoying time with family and friends.

To maintain this balance, you must be aware of the changes in your pregnant body as well as the emotional changes a family endure the life of the pregnancy.

I've learned that health begins at conception and having a support system of family, friends and community that is of like-mind is priceless.

Doula's are there from the beginning to help the birthing mother feel that support. While others may be tired, restless, or even stressed as the birth process begins, YOU will have your doula and new friend to stay calm and focused on your needs and emotional well being

I believe a child's life starts from conception and the pregnant woman must nurture herself like she would nurture her newborn. In accordance, I offer the mother and partner support throughout the pregnancy; answering questions and encouraging emotional and physical health of the mother and baby. We will discuss any fears or challenges you may have about pregnancy or birth.

What does a Doula do?

Check my resources page for Penny Simkin (birth support expert), discussing doula and the role they take in birth:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fs666wZZRrI

Doula's support and attend to the needs of a woman. Traditionally there have been woman--midwives, mothers, friend--supporting labor and pregnancy by giving advice, teaching how to breath and use herbs.

Today a doula is hired by the family to educate and support the needs of a pregnant woman. Typically women who plan to give birth in a hospital have a doctor that does routine check ups and answer the medical questions. However, in our fast-paced and busy lives we forget to ask the emotionally pertinent questions--that's where a doula can be of the most value.

She reminds mom and dad to check in with themselves, to see how they are feeling, how they are acting, and what can be done to make the birth amazing.

Here are a few specifics:

An initial meeting and interview
Birth information session--includes a birth plan if desired
Partner Preparation session in your home
On-call telephone support throughout pregnancy
Prenatal visit with your health care provider
Relaxation and breathing guidance
Comfort measures and coaching as needed
Labor Support throughout entire delvery
Immediate birth photos
24 hr phone availability 1 month surrounding due date
Staying with family 1-2 hours post delivery
Postpartum consultation in home
Breastfeeding support
Documentation of birth events

Certified through "VidaLuna Doula Certification Program."
This program is an intensive 3 month long journey through your own birth as well as an in-depth look at assisting another woman in labor.

After completing this program, I not only feel comfortable with the physical and emotional ascpects of labor and birth, but am intimately aware of how that process resonates throughout our entire lives.