Birth Doulas 

The word doula comes from the Greek meaning ''in service". A doula is a professional labour assistant who understands the emotional and physical needs of a woman in labour, and provides continuous support and care for a woman throughout labour, delivery, and the immediate postpartum period.

Doulas are recognized for their expertise in providing labour support to labouring women and their partners, with help and advice on comfort measures, relaxation, breathing and positioning. Birth can be a positive and life-changing experience for a woman as she feels her body working to bring forth new life.

Having a doula can mean the difference between a good birth experience and disappointing one. The presence of a doula sets the parents minds at ease and helps them avoid an early trip to the hospital. Once at the hospital, a doula helps the mother relax and suggests positions to help labour progress. She can assure the mother and her partner that labour is progressing normally, and offer suggestions if it is not. If interventions such as oxytocin supplementation or pain medication are suggested or needed, the doula can inform the mother and her partner about the benefits and risks. After the delivery, the doula will assist the new mother with  breastfeeding, offering tips and guidance.

Research results confirm up to:

~ 50% reduction in caesarean rate

~ 25% shorter labour

~ 40% reduction in forceps delivery

~ 40% reduction in oxytocin use

~ 60% reduction in epidural requests

~ 30% reduction in analgesia use (ex. morphine)

Long term benefits include:

~ improved breastfeeding

~ lower incidence of postpartum depression

~ increased satisfaction with partner and birth experience

With Doula Connections, the first consultation is always free. If you decide that you want us to assist you during your birth, you will receive the following: 

·          Two prenatal visits to discuss and help you prepare your birth plan, and to familiarize you and your partner with the various comfort measures we provide during labour. During these prenatal visits, you will have a chance to meet both Monica and Tammy, so that you will develop a relationship with either one of the doulas that will attend your birth.

·          Telephone support during your pregnancy and the first few weeks postpartum. Please feel free to call either one of your doulas with any questions you may have.

·          Doula support during your labour, no matter how long or short it is. One of us will join you when you feel you need our support, whether you are labouring at home or at the hospital.

·          Support after birth for the first hour or two, to assist with breastfeeding and recovery.

·          Photos taken before, during, and after the birth, if desired.

·          A written birth story for your baby book.

·          A visit in the early postpartum weeks to discuss the birth, address any baby-care concerns, give you a story of your baby's birth, and gather feedback. Of course, we also want to admire your baby!

* On August 17, 2006, a past client of ours lost her husband in an automobile accident, leaving her to care for her three young children on her own. We are donating $25 from every birth we attend to help support them through their time of need.