The Doula’s encouragement, reassurance, and practical knowledge of comfort measures and labor enhancing techniques can decrease pain and anxiety for the laboring mother. Her continuous support and comfort measures include breathing techniques, relaxation, massage, positioning and other non-pharmacological pain relief measures. The doula works together with the family and medical staff to meet the individual needs of the mother and her family. Her goal is for her client to have a safe and satisfying birth experience as the mother-to-be defines it. A doula provides you with an objective view of your labor, having witnessed and participated in many previously. She performs a bridging role between you and your partner, the medical staff, and caregivers.

To help give you a better understanding of what services a Doula can provide, the following is an outline of the type of care a Birth Doula can provide:

• Two prenatal visits (in addition to the initial interview)
• Preparation of a written birth plan
• Accompany you to one prenatal appointment with your chosen health care provider
• 24 hour availability 2 weeks before and 2 weeks following your expected due date
• Continuous support and hands-on comfort during the length of your labor and birth
• Initial breastfeeding support during the immediate postpartum period
• 2 postpartum follow-up visits in the hospital and/or your home
• Keepsake birth story
• Unlimited phone consultation before and after birth
• Access to an extensive library of childbirth and breastfeeding related materials and resources
• Access to products frequently recommended

If you are interested in postpartum care, a Postpartum Doula can provide:

• Light Housekeeping and laundry
• Errand running
• Meal planning and preparation
• Emotional support during your transition into parenthood
• Breastfeeding education and support
• Initial breastfeeding support during the immediate postpartum period
• Care and activities for siblings
• Advice on basic newborn care
• Usually, a minimum commitment of 10 hours required for postpartum care

Hopefully, this has given you a better understanding of the type of services a Doula can provide. If you have additional questions, do not hesitate to send us a note via the help button on the bottom left corner. We will respond to you within 24 hours.