What is a Birth Doula?
The word "doula" comes from the Greek word for the most important female slave or servant in an ancient Greek household, the woman who probably helped the lady of the house through her childbearing. The word has come to refer to "a woman experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the mother before, during and just after childbirth." (Klaus, Kennell and Klaus, Mothering the Mother) Why Hire a Doula?
Research has shown that when doulas are present at birth, the laboring woman is less likely to use pain medications, less likely to give birth with vacuum extraction, forceps or by cesarean, and report greater overall satisfaction with their birth experience.
(http://childbirthconnection.org/article.asp?ck=10272&ClickedLink=200&area=2)
My Role as a Birth Doula
As a Birth Doula, I provide continual support to a woman and her partner/family during labor, delivery, and immediately following birth. Prior to labor, I can help you find answers to your questions regarding pregnancy, labor, delivery, your newborn, and breastfeeding. For a reduced fee, I can also provide you with personal Childbirth Preparedness Class(es), if you wish. During labor, I offer comfort measures and labor progressing techniques, relief for your partner, and will help you find answers to your questions that may arise during labor. After delivery, I will stay with you for one to two hours, or until breastfeeding has been established. My role is refined during prenatal visits to meet the needs of each of my clients.
My Philosophy on Birth
I believe that birth is a natural, physiological process, with a profoundness and sacredness that cannot be written about, only experienced. To be invited to share in that experience is truly an honor and a blessing, whether you choose to birth in a hospital, a freestanding birth center, or at home; with or without medications, etc. I also believe that your choices should be honored through continual, compassionate, and loving support.
A Personal Note About Me
I am the mother of two daughters, 24 and 22. My 24-year old was posterior and born by Cesarean. (Wish I knew what a Doula was back then!) My youngest fully cooperated and was born vaginally (Whew!). My oldest graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia and has begun her adult life in St. Louis. Her sister earned an AAS from South Seattle Community College in the Pastry & Specialty Baking Program and is baking away for Seattle University. Hard to believe how fast they have grown. Luckily for my husband, we all enjoy camping, baseball, music, and classic cars. And, of course, I am insatiable when it comes to pregnancy, birth, and newborns!
Birth Doula Training
I was trained through Bates Technical College and am certified through PALS (Pacific Association of Labor Support).
Fees and Further Details Please view my contract outlining fees and complete details by clicking here. How Do You Set-up an Interview with Me?
You can contact my by clicking here!
