A doula is a trained labor support person. More than a coach, a doula supports a laboring mother and her partner during the process of birth. A doula begins before your due date by going over your options for birth, alliviating any concerns or anxiety and helping you develop a birth plan. When labor starts, a doula can be with you at home for the initial stages of birth, and remain there if you are delivering at home or she will accompany you to the hospital or birth center. She provides sure, confident knowledge, a calm, steady presence and valuable emotional and physical support to the laboring couple. Unlike nurses, who come and go while attending other patients and having shift changes, a doula stays with you for the duration of the labor and birth. She will be a liason between you and the hospital staff, work with the nurses and obstetrician to see that your birth plan is communicated and followed, and help you understand what is going on.
This valuable service has other benefits. Science and the birthing community is now coming to understand that how we are born profoundly shapes the way we perceive our world, relate to others in it, and affects what we believe about ourselves. These early imprints can guide our relationships, decisions, and our emotional health for a lifetime. Having a positive birth experience is important not only for the mother, but also for the baby. Research has shown that having a doula present results in shorter labors, fewer obstetrical interventions like Cesarean Section, forceps or inductions, and women who had a doula report feeling more empowered during birth, less afraid and come away with more positive memories than women who do not have a doula. All of these things make a startling difference in the quality of bonding and attachment you achieve with your newborn.
Having a doula with you at your birth can be one of the most important ways you can ensure a healthy start for your family.
Certified as a doula in 1993, I have attended many births in hospital, birth center and home settings. I am passionate about assisting new parents in this most sacred and intimate process, however I choose my clients carefully, and select my clients based on a few key factors. If you are interested in discussing whether or not I am able to be your doula, please call me at 509-387-1083 or email me, so we can set up a time to meet and go over your needs and desires for your birth, and if I can help you achieve them.