In the ancient Greek, the word Doula means "woman servant".  This was usually the most favored female servant in the household, who was honored to attend and support the lady of the house, during her labor and delivery.  Today, the word means a woman who has been professionally trained to support and educate women and their families during pregnancy, labor, and delivery.

Studies have shown that having a doula for labor support include:

• A 50% reduction in the cesarean rate
• A 25% shorter labor
• A 60% reduction in epidural requests
• A 40% reduction in oxytocin (pitocin) use
• A 30% reduction in analgesia use
• A 40% reduction in forceps delivery

Excerpted from Mother the Mother: How a Doula Can Help You Have a Shorter Easier and Happier Birth, Klaus, Kennell, and Klaus (1993)

Each client will receive at least two prenatal visits, and I will provide information on thier pregnancy.  I would love to attend one visit with you to your care provider.  If this is not possible, it is very important that your provider knows that you plan on using my services, prior to the start of your labor.  We will come up with a birth plan that suites your needs and desires.  We can do belly casting and/or pregnancy photography for an added fee.  During labor, I will provide continuous physical, emotional and educational support.  I will remain with you at your home until it is time to go to the hospital.  I will then continue to provide support throughout the rest of your labor, and delivery, and up to two hours postpartum.  I will provide comfort measures and coping strategies for dealing well with labor.  This includes use of the birth ball, massage, hydrotherapy, acupressure, hot/cold therapies, change of position, visualizations, walking, aromatherapy, relaxing music, breathing techniques, and complete and gentle emotional support for you and your partner.  I am not there to replace your partner, but help your partner help you.  I am there to work with you, and to be your advocate.  I will inform you on procedures, and give you the pro's and con's of each, and let you know what your options might be.  I am not there to be a problem for the medical staff taking care of you, but I am there to be an integral part of your birth team.  My goal is to help you through this life changing event...getting there the way YOU want to get there.  I will help you with breastfeeding, and will make sure you are comfortable before leaving.  I will make at least one postpartum visit, but will be availble for phone consultations 24 hours a day, up to two weeks postpartum.  If additional postpartum care is needed, please talk to me, and we can arrange something. 

Postpartum doula services are twenty dollars per hour.  Because I am the mother to two small children, my postpartum services are limited.  Please call to find out available days and hours.  I can help you out for a few hours a day to give you a break, and I can help you with daily tasks around the house, run errands, childcare, and/or give you a hand establishing breastfeeding, and learning baby care.  I do not charge for phone consultations.

I accept cash, checks or money orders.  Gift Certificates are available for any amount as well.