My Role as Your Birth Doula

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I would love to support you on this journey towards bringing your child into the world. As your birth doula, my role is to provide you with continuous uninterrupted support throughout your labor. Our relationship begins during your pregnancy and I will help you approach your birth with confidence. 

I have an understanding of the emotions and physiology of labor as well as the ability to remain calm and objective. I look forward to supporting you work towards your ideal birth experience. I can also provide guidance in making informed decisions if challenges arise. I strive to provide a sense of relaxation during labor using techniques such as soothing touch, positioning, massage, and other comfort measures. I am independent and self-employed. As your doula, I am working for you, not your caregiver or hospital.

• Initial introductory meeting at an agreed upon location to get to know one another which is free of charge.
• Two prenatal visits - Our first meeting will focus on discussing the desires for your birth. Our second visit will review any goals that you have set and we will practice comfort techniques and birthing positions.
• Assistance creating an Individualized Birth Plan.
• Continued communication during pregnancy via text, phone, or email to answer questions. (Response time within 24 hours unless I am attending another birth. I will be sure to notify you via text if I am with a laboring mother.)
• Professional referrals and resources provided as needed. 
• 24/7 On Call availability starting two weeks prior to your estimated due date.
• Uninterrupted support in your home, birth center, or hospital throughout labor and delivery.
• Ongoing assistance for one to two hours after birth, including breastfeeding support.
• Follow-up with one postpartum visit in your home.

Numerous clinical studies have found that the continuous support a doula provides tends to result in: 

• shorter labors with fewer complications
• lower incidence of cesareans
• reduced need for Pitocin (a labor-inducing drug), forceps, or vacuum extraction
• decreased requests for pain medication and epidurals
• increased likelihood for mothers to rate their childbirth experience positively

Absolutely not! My support is also geared towards your loved ones. A primary goal is to take pressure off of anyone you choose to involve in your birthing process so they can participate at their own comfort level. A doula's presence can strengthen their role and confidence by providing education and encouragement. I will also ensure that they eat properly, do not get overly fatigued, and have the opportunity to rest if needed. If you have your own devices/equipment available, I am able to take photographs and capture your memories as desired. 

You will still benefit from a doula whether or not pain medications are utilized. As your doula, I will be there to help you make informed decisions regarding pain management options and I will also provide comfort measures during early labor before an epidural is administered. 

I will be there to support you in the event of a scheduled or unplanned Caesarean birth. My role as your doula in this situation may involve:

• Assisting you and your partner in gathering pertinent information from the medical providers regarding the recommendation for a C-Section
• Remaining by your side in the event your partner goes with your baby for any exams
• Providing postpartum support with breastfeeding/bonding 

Many people have started to include doula services on their baby shower registries which allows family and friends to place money towards the fee and greatly reduce, if not eliminate your out-of-pocket cost. One option is www.babylist.com which allows you to create a registry where you can add your doula fees as well as items from any store. Gift cards are also available for purchase. 

The earlier we begin to form our relationship the better! The initial meeting is free and monthly check-ins will follow. We will have two in-person meetings during your pregnancy. 

Feel free to contact me at darathebirthdoula@gmail.com with any additional questions.