More about Doulas

"'Doula' is a Greek word meaning "woman servant or caregiver". It now refers to an experienced woman who offers emotional and practical support to a woman (or couple) before, during and after childbirth. A doula believes in “mothering the mother” - enabling a woman to have the most satisfying and empowered time that she can during pregnancy, birth and the early days as a new mum. This type of support also helps the whole family to relax and enjoy the experience.

As childbirth has moved from home to hospital, a vital element of care has been lost from the whole process. Gone are the days where a woman would have continuous support from one carer throughout her labour. It used to be the case that the womenfolk within the immediate and extended family (mothers/sisters/grandmother etc...) would be on hand to provide the nurturing role for the new mother, to guide by experience and help with the practicalities that need to be performed before, during and after a woman gives birth to a baby.

Research has shown that having a doula present at a birth ;

Shortens first-time labour by an average of 2 hours

Decreases the chance of caesarean section by 50%

Decreases the need for pain medication

Helps fathers participate with confidence

Increases success in breastfeeding"

Doula UK

As your Doula, i would include 2 prenatal visits to discuss your birth wishes, a Yoga or relaxation session for you and your partner if they wished and to generally answer any questions you had regarding the birth and your pregnancy. I would be on call, unless otherwise stated, 24hrs a day for 2 weeks before, and after your due date and i would be available for two visits postnatally, either just to chat and discuss how things are going, to debrief the birth, to help with breastfeeding, to point you in the right direction with any help you might need and/or to help with the physical aspects of postnatal recovery through Yoga and breathing techniques. I would be available to you via phone or email throughout your miraculous journey ...

I look forward to the possibilty of sharing it with you! xxx