Services
We meet twice during the pregnancy and once shortly after the birth. I am on call 24 hours for the two weeks either side of your due date. I come and stay with you for as long as is needed during the labour whether at home or hospital or both. As a trainee birth doula my charges are only for petrol and car parking. For postnatal work my hourly rate is £15.
What do I provide as a birth doula?
Trained and experienced in childbirth, as a birth doula I am there to give continuous support throughout pregnancy and labour so decreasing the use of painkilling drugs and medical intervention.
Birth Planning
Being bombarded with advice from all directions? Giving good factual information from an independent source is a doula’s role and my skill is to help women in labour and answer specific questions from both parents. This will clarify your thoughts even if you decide not to have a doula there for the birth.
What are the advantages of having a doula?
Enabling a woman to have the most satisfying experience during this time has a profound effect on the family as a whole.
My aim is to fill a vital element of ante natal as well as post natal care and one which is statistically based (Cochrane Review “Continuous support for women during childbirth” Issue 3, 2004) especially if the support begins early in labour and birth. This means that no matter how many changes of staff, I will be there for you. Medical management and intervention are common and need informed choices about which a doula is experienced and knowledgeable. Skills such as use of different positions, massage and a birthing ball can all help a shorter labour, culminating in less likelihood of oxytocin being used to speed up contractions along with reduction in forceps and caesarean deliveries. As well as a lower incidence of epidural use, increase in breastfeeding for longer periods - these are all well researched established facts associated with continuous care from a doula.
What do I provide as a postnatal doula?
Give emotional and practical help enabling a relaxed stress-free mum with fewer problems after birth. I provide a caring, safe and experienced pair of hands. My service includes looking after the whole family but not the housework or ironing!