Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is a doula?

A doula is a trained, non-medical support person for birth. The doula works with women prenatally and in labor, staying with them through the birth and a little bit after. A doula supports a woman no matter what birth decisions she makes and gives her as much information as possible. Doulas do not perform any medical or clinical tasks such as vaginal exams, blood pressure and fetal monitoring.

2. Why use a doula?

In order to have a positive birth experience, most women need continuous labor support. Although OB nurses are experienced in dealing with a laboring woman's emotional and physical needs, they can seldom guarantee the support they provide will last throughout the labor - especially in hospital settings where shift changes, coffee breaks, heavy paperwork and busy nights regularly occur. Some nurses handle up to six laboring couples at a time. Midwives may be able to offer more labor support, but they too have clinical duties to which they must attend.

Knowing there is another woman on which to rely emotionally, one who stays by their side throughout the labor and birth process and postpartum, is of great comfort.

Breathing techniques, frequent position changes and other comfort measures help labor to progress and can ease discomfort on a physical level.

Research has shown that having a labor doula present during birth can reduce the:

· Cesarean Rate by 50%

· Length of Labor by 25%

· Use of Pitocin by 40%

· Use of Pain Medication by 30%

· Need for Forceps by 40%

· Requests for Epidurals by 60%

3. What is the father's role?

The father or partner, may be better able to provide continuous support but has little actual experience in dealing with the forces of labor. Even fathers who have had intensive preparation are often surprised at the amount of work involved (more than enough for two people). Even more important, many fathers experience the birth as an emotional journey of their own and find it hard to be objective in such a situation.

4. Will a doula replace the father?

Some fathers or partners are concerned they may be sidelined or replaced by the doula during labor. Although individual situations vary, and one should question a prospective doula about her philosophy, generally the answer to this question is no - she will not replace him. Studies have shown that fathers usually participate more actively during labor in the presence of a doula than without one. A responsible doula supports and encourages the father and enhances his support style rather than replaces him.

Article: Dads & Doulas: Key Players on Mother's Labor Support Team

Labor Doula Services include:

• Free consultation

• A minimum of two prenatal visits at your home to cover all of your questions, concerns, and to create a birth plan. This is a great time to discuss comfort measures and to practice various birthing positions and movement.

• On call for two weeks prior and one week after your due date.

• Loving, unconditional labor support, starting whenever you request but is usually when active labor begins. Specific support with things like positions, breath coaching, using birth-ball, warm and cool compresses and massage. I will also support your birth partner with active suggestions and encouragement.

• A comprehensive birth story for you and your family to cherish, chronicling the events and progress of the birth

• Also includes one home follow-up visit.