If a doula were a drug, it would be unethical not to use it.” ~ John H. Kennell, MD
WHAT IS A DOULA?

Doulas are professional birth coaches. We spend time getting know our clients and learning about what matters to each birthing person and their partner(s). Doulas give continuous support during the birthing process. We are trained to provide emotional and physical support as well as evidence-based information. We do not do anything medical but we are familiar with the benefits and risks associated with medical procedures that may be offered to birthing families.

WHAT IS THE EVIDENCE FOR DOULAS?

Rebecca Dekker from Evidence Based Birth has compiled the evidence for doulas on her website:

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

Rebecca notes that “people who have continuous support during childbirth experience a:
  • 25% decrease in the risk of Cesarean; the largest effect was seen with a doula (39% decrease)*
  • 8% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth; the largest effect was seen with a doula (15% increase)*
  • 10% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief; the type of person providing continuous support did not make a difference
  • Shorter labors by 41 minutes on average; there is no data on if the type of person providing continuous support makes a difference
  • 38% decrease in the baby’s risk of a low five minute Apgar score; there is no data on if the type of person providing continuous support makes a difference
  • 31% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience; mothers’ risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience was reduced with continuous support provided by a doula or someone in their social network (family or friend), but not hospital staff”

​WHAT IS YOUR PHILOSOPHY OF BIRTH?

My philosophy of birth can be summed up in one word: TRUST. I trust the birth process, I trust the families I serve to make their own informed choices, and I trust myself to be ethical and compassionate in my work. It is my honor and privilege to attend the births of the families I serve, and I deeply value the choices of each birthing person.
You are constructing your own reality with the choices you make ... or don't make. If you really want a healthy pregnancy and joyful birth, and you truly understand that you are the one in control, then you must examine what you have or haven't done so far to create the outcome you want.” Kim Wildner - Mother's Intention: How Belief Shapes Birth