"All over the world there exists in every society a small group of women who feel themselves strongly attracted to giving care to other women during pregnancy and childbirth. Failure to make use of this group of highly motivated people is regrettable and a sin against the principle of subsidiary." ~ Dr. Kloosterman, Chief of OB/GYN, Univ. of Amsterdam, Holland
"If a doula were a drug, it would be unethical not to use it." ~ John H. Kennell, MD
A birth doula provides continual, unwavering support to women during childbirth. She works in a cooperative with the entire family and birth team. She is not meant to take the place of a partner, or medical professional, but works alongside them to attend to the emotional support and physical comfort of the birthing woman. A good doula is well trained in comfort measures for the laboring woman, and is also empathetic, which combined, can help to create a calmer birthing experience. Having a birth doula has shown to reduce negative outcomes and unwanted interventions, and commonly promotes a more favorable, satisfying birthing experience.
A postpartum doula is trained to help families adjust to having a new baby in the home. She can help with breastfeeding, scheduling, attending to older siblings, and nurturing mom for a quicker recovery. A postpartum doula also performs light housekeeping and meal preparations, and lends a hand in baby care. Postpartum doulas are trained to observe for early signs of postpartum depression, and are able to make referrals, as necessary. She will free up time for new parents to bond with baby, or will care for the baby to allow mom a chance to get a shower, or nap, or spend time with older siblings. She is well trained in caring for the mother's physical and emotional needs during the postpartum time. Hiring a postpartum doula has proven to lessen the occurrence or severity of postpartum depression, and ease the transition into life with a new family member. Contact me today for a free consultation!