Birth Doula Services

A labor support professional, or birth doula, is someone who is trained and experienced in pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period and can provide continuous physical and emotional support to a mother before, during, and after childbirth.

Studies have shown that including a doula at your birth may greatly reduce:

• the chances of a caesarian
• the desire/need for pain medication
• the use of pitocin
• the length of your labor

The experiences of pregnancy and birth can be deeply healing and empowering. Doulas can help women connect to the innate wisdom and power of their bodies and foster comfort and trust in the birth process.

What to Expect

Contrary to many expectations, having a doula reinforces the importance of the partner or father’s presence and does not negate their role in the birth. A birth partner can participate to his or her comfort level, while also being nurtured and cared for by the doula during this major life transition. I work to support, educate, and advocate for all involved in the birth – mom, baby, and partner – by helping with labor and delivery positions, providing massage and aromatherapy, assisting with “aquadurals” (baths or showers), translating information from doctors or midwives, and encouraging the mother’s inner guidance and strength. Essentially, my role is to work intuitively with the mother to find exactly what she needs to focus and be present in her birth.

(Photos courtesy of @annaelledge)

A labor support professional can enhance the birth experience by providing additional support for the birthing family in the home, birth center, or hospital setting. Please call (805) 407-1202 for more information on what I provide in my doula services.