Birth Doula Services

What is a Doula?

The word Doula is an ancient greek term that translates into "caregiver" or "woman of service"

A doula provides physical, emotional and informational support to help you achieve a positive birth experience.

Statistical Benefits of Hiring a Doula

Reduces your chances of a cesarean birth by up to 50%
Decreases length of labor by 25%
30% less need for pain medication
60% less epidural requests
40% reduction of pitocin usage

Working with Vanessa

As a doula, I accompany families through their pregnancy and birth journey.  Having a safe and satisfying birth experience can shape many aspects of your life after baby.  I will use my knowledge and experience to assist you prenatally in organizing and preparing for your ideal birth experience.  We can also discuss newborn care, baby gear recommendations, and car seat safety.  When the big day arrives, I provide physical comfort, emotional support, and the information you need to make informed decisions as needed through labor.  This includes suggestions for progressing labor, providing reassurance and perspective to you and your partner, helping with relaxation, positioning, and other helpful techniques.   If you desire, photography is included.  As situations allow, I will document this exciting time and most importantly, those first moments of you meeting your new baby.  
A brief description of what I offer:

♥1-2 prenatal visits before labor to discuss the birth and plan how we might work best together

♥Help creating a birth plan

♥24 hour on call availability during the weeks around your due date

♥Early labor support via phone or in your home

♥Non-medial support and comfort techniques for labor and birth

♥Information as requested to help you make informed decisions during labor and birth.

♥I strive to maintain the birth environment you desire.

♥Photos, as circumstances allow

♥Will photograph labor, birth, and new baby, if desired and time and circumstances allow

♥Assistance in providing information and giving emotional and practical parenting support by telephone or email on postpartum care, breastfeeding and newborn care after the birth, as requested

♥1 postpartum visit in home to admire baby, give referrals, discuss the birth and any concerns you may have

♥Carseat install and education

Investment: $1800-$2000 depending on location