DOULA“Published data indicate that one of the most effective tools to improve labor and delivery outcomes is the continuous presence of support personnel, such as a doula. Given that there are no associated measurable harms, this resource is probably underutilized.” -The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Safe Prevention of the Primary Cesarean Delivery
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A doula is a compassionate part of the birth team supporting the mother and family prior to and through the process of labor and delivery. The role of a doula is to provide information, physical and emotional support.
A DOULA PROVIDES:
Information- helping to determine birth preferences, assisting with creating birth plan, explaining options for delivery, explaining options for the birth setting such as home birth, birthing center or hospital, offering breastfeeding information and providing community resources.
Nonmedical physical support – assisting with comfort measures during labor such as positioning, relaxation techniques, breathing techniques, massage, warm / cold packs or hydrotherapy.
Emotional support – such as words of encouragement, a calm presence, empowering mom during the birth experience, allowing time to discuss the experience afterward, and partner / family support.
A DOULA DOES NOT:
Provide medical care such as exams, fetal heart checks, etc.
Make decisions for you. A doula will provide information so you are able to make an informed decision for yourself.
Speak on your behalf to medical staff. A doula will discuss your concerns with you and share options. You or your partner will make the decision and relay it to the medical staff.
I want you to feel empowered and supported through the birth process and will do my best to make my doula services available to you. Located in Winthrop, Maine, I serve laboring women virtually as well as within a 40 mile driving radius.
Doula care rates vary are not typically covered by health insurance. Flex spending account or HSA may be used.
To check my availability and schedule your free consultation click here or visit me on DoulaMatch.
SUPPORT OPTIONS
One Prenatal Meeting: $75
On Call 38 Weeks - Birth: Included
Virtual Labor Support: $400
In-Person Labor Support: $500
Online Recorded Childbirth Education Course: $129
One Private Yoga Class (Prenatal/Postnatal/Infant): $75
Yoga Class Series: TBD based on number of weeks
Belly Casting: $150
Prenatal Reflexology: $50
One Postpartum Follow Up Visit: $75
Postpartum Care: $35 per hour with 3 hour minimum. It would be an honor to assist you and your baby as you rest and recover from childbirth. Anticipated needs to be discussed beforehand.
Blessingway Ceremony
Evolved from a traditional Native American ceremony, the purpose is to encourage, nurture and support the parent-to-be during the journey into motherhood. This peaceful, supportive celebration can be in place of, or in addition to, a baby shower and can take place up to one year after a birth. Fees vary depending on time and budget. Please inquire.