"A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a mother before, during and shortly after childbirth to help her achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible."
-DONA International
There are plenty of scientific, evidence-based trials that have examined doula care. These studies show that births with doulas demonstrate remarkably improved physical and psychological outcomes for both mother and baby.
The presence of a doula at birth can result in:
*Shorter labor, with few complications
*Reduced need for cesarean section
*Reduced need for Pitocin (a labor-inducing drug), forceps or vacuum extraction
*Reduced request by the mother for pain medication and/or epidural
Studies have also shown that babies born with a doula present tend to have shorter hospital stays, breastfeed more easily and have more affectionate mothers during the postpartum period.
So how do we start?
First, we will schedule a free consultation to see if we are a good fit for one another.
If so, then we will move forward and set up a time for the first of our 2 prenatal visits. During these visits we will cover a variety of topics. We can use this time to discuss your pregnancy, any past experience with birth, and address any concerns & questions you might have. We can write up your
birth plan and cover any information you need to feel confident. We can also take time to rehearse
position changes and comfort measures for pain management during labor, and review the roles of everyone involved in the birthing of your baby.
After the prenatal visits, I am available for you 24/7 via text or phone for further emotional or educational support.
During the birth, I provide constant physical support in the form of movement, positive positioning, and various comfort measures.
Once your beautiful baby has arrived, I will remain with you for 1-2 hours to help with breastfeeding and any other after-care you might need. Approximately a week later, I will visit you for a final postpartum visit. At this time, we will discuss the birth and address anything related to helping you adjust to your new role as a parent.
Should you need/want additional support, we will discuss and coordinate a postpartum program for you. Typically, postpartum care is for the first 42 days (6 weeks) after birth. However, I am happy to customize a program to meet your needs.
Contact me directly at healthfuleigh@yahoo.com
for more information.