What is a Labor Doula?
A Labor Doula, or birth assistant, offers emotional and physical support to the expectant family before, during and after the birth of their baby. Labor Doulas serve as advocates for the family, labor coaches and an invaluable information source before and during the labor.
Is it really helpful to have a Doula?
Yes! Studies show that continuous support during labor helps both mom and baby. Results of a comprehensive study released in 2011 indicates that women who had doula support were:
28% less likely to have a cesarean section
31% less likely to use synthetic oxytocin to speed up labor
9% less likely to use any pain medication
34% less likely to rate their childbirth experience negatively
Source:
Childbirth Connection; Study by Hodnett ED, Gates S, Hofmeyr G J, Sakala C, Weston J - "Continuous support for women during childbirth," (Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2011, Issue 2).
In our experience, babies born with the support of a qualified labor doula also tend to have an easier time breastfeeding, encouraging better bonding and overall health as well as quicker healing for mom post pregnancy.
Husbands and other birth partners often find the support of a labor doula irreplaceable, providing support, comfort and relief for them as their loved one is supported.
Services offered by Doulas:
Timely information that encourages informed consent and open communication.
Resources when necessary or requested.
Support for the expectant woman and her partner.
Information regarding childbirth options.
Assistance in formulating ideas for the birth.
Information about a well-balanced diet and fluid intake.
Focus on the comfort of mom and partner throughout labor and childbirth.
Help with creating a confident and secure environment in which to labor and birth.
Assistance with breastfeeding and bonding.
Labor Support in the hospital, at home, or at a birthing center.
Labor Doulas DO NOT:
Perform medical procedures, such as blood pressure checks, IVs, blood draws, or manual exams.
Make decisions for mother or baby’s medical care.
Labor Doula Testimonials:
"Kathy was absolutely incredible.We couldn't have done it without her!" -M.J.P
“We really appreciate that Rhonda could arrive at roughly 5 am for our son’s surprise (early) arrival. Thank you so much for helping us. As the husband I can say that I was grateful that you were there because I never would have been able to coach my wife so well on my own since I’d never experienced or witnessed childbirth before. Thanks" -CWA
“Kathy was wonderful. I could not have had the natural birth I wanted without her. The hospital staff was clearly not experienced in natural births, so having Kathy there to keep me on track was critical to sticking with my birth plan. Her manner was gentle yet guiding and I really appreciated her experience- bot pre-, during and post-birth.” -CG, mom
“As a first time parent, I found our labor doula Kathy extremely helpful and comforting during the birth of our daughter. I was concerned that the hospital staff would push their version of the birthing process and not offer all medical options in an unbiased way. Our labor doula Kathy provided a useful counter point to the suggestions made by the hospital nursing staff, which enabled my wife and I to make informed decisions. Kathy was helpful without being intrusive. I am not sure if my wife could have accomplished the natural childbirth she desired without Kathy’s help. I highly recommend her, particularly for first time parents.” -CG, dad
"Joanna was fantastic! She has such a gentle touch and a very soothing voice. She was able to help me achieve my #1 goal – to not have to take an epidural. She was respectful of my husband’s role as well as the hospital staff. If we decide to have another baby, I would love to have Joanna help us again. Thank You."
At The Motherhood Center, we offer a variety of Doula Services from Labor through the Postnatal period. We will connect you with a trained, experienced Labor Doula to be there for you and your partner during the delivery. Labor doula services start at $850 and we also offer several package options.
If you are considering the presence of a Doula at your birth, we encourage you to contact us with any further questions. We are honored to support you and look forward to connecting you with the right Labor Doula for your family.
Contact: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Phone: 713-963-8880
Labor Doula Packages
Martha's Vineyard Package- $1,500
Includes:
Labor Doula
Five Prenatal Yoga Class Pass
Three one hour massages
Educational Classes in Newborn Care, CPR (includes 2 people), Childbirth and Breastfeeding
Newborn Care Class
South Beach Package- $1,200
Includes:
Labor Doula
Five Prenatal Yoga Class pass
Three one hour massages
Educational class in childbirth
Sedona Package- $925
Includes:
Labor Doula
Five Prenatal Yoga Class Pass
One one hour massage
You may also be interested in:
What is a Labor Doula? - Join us for a session of questions and answers about the benefits of labor support. Learn about the process of connecting with a trained, experienced Labor Doula who will be there for you and your partner during the delivery.
Labor Doula Evaluations - Hear what moms have to say about their experience with a labor doula.
Prepared Childbirth Class - Prepares the expectant mom and her partner with everything she will need before going to the hospital. Topics covered include your personal labor plan and different options you have. Physiology and mechanics of the three stages of labor will be emphasized.