Evidence suggests that, in addition to regular nursing care, continuous one-to-one emotional support provided by support personnel, such as a doula, is associated with improved outcomes for women in labor.
— American College of Obstetricians and Gynocologists

 


The Birth Doula 

 

  • Recognizes birth as a key experience in life. Bears witness and holds space for the transformation of your family with the belief that every birth is natural, regardless of the delivery method.

  • Ensures advocacy throughout pregnancy and delivery by making sure you have the information, resources and support you need. Works to facilitate communication between you, your partner and clinical care providers.

  • Offers emotional, physical and educational support for you and your partner throughout this intensely natural life event, as a chosen member of your labor support team. Works to enhance the partner’s role at his/her own comfort level.

  • Empowers your overall experience and birth story through individualized care. Works to offer genuine support that enhances your body’s innate strength and utilizes your body mechanics to your advantage.

In ancient history, the word “doula” derived from the greek meaning “a woman who serves.” It is now used to refer to a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support before, during, and just after birth.

Evidence and Research

  • 28% less likely to have a cesarean section

  • 31% less likely to use synthetic oxytocin to speed up labor

  • 9% less likely to use pain medication

  • 34% less likely to rate their childbirth experience negatively

  • Higher satisfaction 

  • More likely to give birth “spontaneously”

  • Shorter Labor

  • Statistically likely to feel less pain

Hodnett ED, Gates S, Hofmeyr GJ, Sakala C. Continuous support for women during childbirth. (2013). Cochrane Database of Systematic. Issue 7. Art. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD003766.pub5/full


Birth Doula Package

Transitions: Doula & Life Services Birth Doula Package can be customized to your specific needs. We have a team of AMAZING doulas at Transitions, and we think you will love them too! We will connect you with the doula who you are interested in, or who best fits with personality or needs. You will have the opportunity to interview them to make sure they are the perfect fit, and you can feel confident knowing the rest of the team is along the way to help when needed!

The birth doula package starts at $1100 plus tax and includes the following:

  • At least two prenatal appointments covering the topics of birth and postpartum preferences and comfort measures, usually these are around 28 and 36 weeks.

  • Introduction to Breastfeeding Class

  • 24/7 on call support during your birthing time, 38-42 weeks

  • Continuous support throughout labor, whenever and wherever that is

  • Phone, text, email support throughout this journey

  • Resources emails covering the topics of birth and postpartum preferences, comfort measures, labor stimulation and breastfeeding

  • Call and text support throughout the postpartum period

  • A postpartum visit within the first two weeks to check in on healing, feeding and process the birth story


    Keep in mind, HSAs DO cover doula support; checking and advocating for coverage of the doula role through your health plan is encouraged. Eventually, we hope to see this coverage consistent, as it is so needed!

    If this sounds like what you’re looking for, or if you have more questions, let’s visit!