A Doula is a trained woman who provides emotional, physical and educational support to a mother who is expecting, experiencing labor and during her delivery.
A Doula is your labor support companion. We do not provide any medical care. We provide comfort with pain relief techniques including relaxation, massage and laboring positions. We also advocate for the mother and encourage any desires she may have surrounding the birth of her child.
Partners and doulas make an awesome team. The role of the partner is elevated when a doula is involved. While the doula can be an extra set of eyes and ears in the room, the partner is more in touch with providing the loving connection that is an integral component of the birth process. A doula may offer suggestions in positions, comfort techniques, but the partner has a deeper knowledge of the mother and how to best support her. Partners most commonly report a higher satisfaction in birth when a doula is present.
Studies have shown that the presence of a trained doula benefits everyone. The studies have consistently shown that doula care is associated with shorter labors, less use of epidurals and other pain medications, lower episiotomy rates, and as much as a 50% reduction in the C-section rate. Research has also shown better clinical outcomes for both the mother and the baby (including fewer admissions to neonatal special care units, better breastfeeding rates, and better family bonding). A doula also provides care for the mother’s partner and other family members, assists busy hospital staff, saves money, and greatly increases a mother’s overall satisfaction with her birthing experience.
Yes. A doula’s presence is helpful during early labor and during the epidural placement process. She then continues to care for the woman and her family, offering emotional and informational support.
Yes, a woman having a C-section can still use a doula’s support. The doula may or may not be in the operating room, depending on the wishes of the family and the medical staff, but either way, the doula is still there for the new mother in the recovery room.
- Set up a payment plan. You can split cost of a doula over several payments to make it easier especially if you book early.
- Customize package based on your budget
- Add to your registry
- Health Insurance
- Flex Spending, health savings or other medical savings account employer benefits)
- Having a baby shower? Ask guest to bring a little donation towards a cost of a doula.
It is best to start the interview process as early as possible. Most doulas limit the number of clients that they take, and schedules can fill up quickly. Around the 20-week mark is a great time, but it’s never too late in the pregnancy to consider hiring one. Most doulas offer a free consultation.
You and your partner discuss and decide what you are looking for in a doula; what services, role, price range, and additional services you would like.
Yes. It is the doula’s goal to establish good working relationships with the doctors, midwives and medical staff of her expectant families. Communication, respect, professionalism, and trust create a supportive birthing team.
Once you retain your doula, she is committed to serving you whether your baby is born before or after the estimated due date.
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Read all of our client testimonials here.