What is a doula?

A birth doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to their client before, during and after birth to help them achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible. Doulas provide reassurance and perspective, make suggestions for labor progress and help with relaxation, massage, positioning, and other comfort measures during labor. Scientific studies of doula care have demonstrated remarkably improved physical and psychological outcomes for both pregnant, birthing and postpartum people and their baby. Doulas also have a positive impact on the well-being of the whole family. Doulas are independently contracted and self-employed. As your doula, I will be working for you, and not for a provider or hospital.

It is my passion and soul's desire to serve women throughout the sacred process of pregnancy and birth. Being a massage therapist for 10 years, I have a deep knowledge of the body and am continually learning new ways our anatomy can support and facilitate an easier labor and delivery, and am certified in the Body Ready Method.

I like to work with couples as closely as they desire throughout pregnancy to prepare for the best possible birth experience. I am a big proponent of education and offer information to make informed decisions. I am also very hands-on and love educating husbands/birth partners on massage techniques and comfort measures for not only labor but also during pregnancy to help prepare the body for birth.

Ideally, I will meet with you and your partner at least 2 times before labor to become acquainted, explore and discuss your birth preferences, talk through any fears or concerns, go over labor positions and comfort measures, demonstrate prenatal exercises and movements to prepare for labor and discuss how everyone on the birth team might work best together.

Payment:
The cost of full birth doula services range from $1500 to $2400, to cover those paying out of pocket to those who are fully covered by insurance. *I accept BCBS, United and Neighborhood Health plans.