What is a doula?

A doula is a professional trained to provide educational, emotional, and practical support to families during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. They are not medical professionals, and do not take the place of a midwife or OBGYN. Instead, they are an additional member of your care team, providing ongoing support and guidance.

What are the benefits of a doula?

• 25-39% decreased risk of a cesarean birth
• 8-15% increased likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth
• 10% decrease in the use of any pharmacological pain relief
• Shorter labor by an average of 41 minutes
• 31% decreased risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience
• 38% decreased risk baby having a low five minute APGAR score
• Lower rates of postpartum depression

Reference: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/the-evidence-for-doulas/

What is your training and background?

My doula journey was inspired by my experience as a Registered Nurse in Labor & Delivery. I then went on to receive training as both a labor and postpartum doula. I have extensive knowledge and experience providing lactation education, through my work in the hospital, and attending many continuing education classes. I’ve also completed specialty training to assist clients interested in trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC)/vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). My CPR and neonatal resuscitation certifications are up to date.

When do you provide services?

I recommend reaching out as soon as you feel comfortable in early pregnancy. Since my goal is to provide very thorough and personalized support, it is best for us to establish our relationship early on. We will get to know each other better, and it will also secure your dates on my calendar. Availability is limited due to the nature of doula work to ensure births are not overlapping. I usually work with clients throughout their pregnancy and in their postpartum period. The postpartum period is generally defined as six weeks, however it can be argued that we are always in our postpartum period after birth. I will provide postpartum support for as long as each individual client/family desires.

What does a labor doula do?

A labor doula provides continuous support to the client and support person(s) in labor. The doula provides physical support through various comfort measures (massage, counter pressure, creating a calm environment, assisting with hydrotherapy, ensuring adequate food and drinks for energy, etc). They also provide emotional support through reassurance, encouragement, praise, their continuous presence, etc. Finally, they provide informational support, suggesting techniques to try during different stages of labor, helping to understand medical information, and sharing evidence-based resources so the clients can make informed decisions.

What does a postpartum doula do?

Each client will receive customized support depending on their own needs and desires, however some common services include:

• Help with emotional and physical postpartum recovery
• Assistance with newborn care (diapering, bathing, feeding, comforting)
• Lactation support
• Light housekeeping
• Light meal prep
• Running errands
• Sibling care
• Assistance with referrals to community resources

What is your service area?

I offer both virtual and in-person doula support.

I provide in-person doula support in the following areas:

Middlesex County, New London County, New Haven County, Hartford County. I generally travel within 45 minutes of Middletown, Connecticut.