Congratulations on your pregnancy. Welcome to you.
Having a doula is such a personal relationship, so before I explain a little of what a doula does I´d like to emphasise that if you feel that having such support may help you, the first step is for us meet up for you to get a sense of my energy and see whether you feel comfortable with me. I really recommend that you meet a few doulas and follow your instincts. If you decide that you would like to work together, I will commit to 3 or more meetings during your pregnancy, and will be on call for 2 weeks either side of your due date. I´ll come when you need me for the birth and stay until you and your family are settled following the birth, wherever that may be. I will visit once or more if needed after your baby is born. I will be available by telephone at all times if you have any questions or concerns, and if anything should arise in my own family that might prevent me from being available I will arrange for my doula partner to be on call to support you.
Research has shown that having a doula present at your birth shortens first-time labour by an average of 2 hours, decreases the chance of caesarean section by 50%, decreases the need for pain medication, helps fathers participate with confidence, and increases success in breast-feeding (Klaus, Kennell & Klaus, 2002).
As a doula, I offer emotional and practical support during pregnancy, birth and early parenthood. Our work preparing together helps you to feel confident to take full and conscious responsibility for your choices around your birth and trust more deeply in the unfolding of the process.
Although birth has become steadily more medical, I believe in our capacity as women to birth in a natural and empowered way. We can stay true and real with the joys, challenges and intensity that we face as we make the transition into mothering be that the first or fourth time. I support whatever choices you feel are appropriate for you and make you feel safe and inspire confidence in you. I provide information about the various options that you have around many aspects of pregnancy, birth and beyond, and hold a caring and non judgemental space in which you can explore hopes, fears, anxieties and expectations. I try to find ways to work in harmony with the medical system and create a positive birthing environment in which your needs are fully met. I draw upon my background in traditional eastern medicine to offer guidance and support for health specific to this time.
Once upon a time we lived in much more close knit communities, and our mothers, aunts, sisters and grandmothers used to be around to nurture the new mother, to guide by experience and help with the practicalities around birth. I feel that its really important to call back this important element of care around birth and to help women to recognize and celebrate the rite of passage of becoming a mother.
Having a consistent care giver throughout pregnancy and the birth makes many women feel much more relaxed, as they are with a familiar and friendly person they trust in this personal and powerful time. Even if the midwife changes shift, as your doula I will stay with you through the whole childbirth experience, however this unfolds. Having someone who is there just for you can really support a positive pregnancy, birth and post natal period. A healthy, relaxed and happy mother is the best thing possible for a growing baby (see research by michel odent) and can really offer the best chance for a peaceful birth. This type of support also helps the rest of the family to relax and enjoy the incredible experience of having a baby.
The services offered vary according to your needs. You choose the level of support that is right for you, whether you are married or single, a first time mum or a large family already.
I am a member of Doula UK, my practice reflects the Doula UK philosophy and the Doula UK code of conduct.
My fee is 600 pounds.
200 pounds is payable as a hiring fee, with the remainder to be paid after birth.
