A bit about Doula's:
Doula originates from Greek meaning a person who 'serves' and anthropologist Dana Raphael first used the term doula to refer to experienced mothers who assisted new mothers. As a mother herself, a doula understands much more intuitively and has experience on her side. We are there to help the woman feel safe and secure and more importantly, research has proven that having emotional and physical continuous support while you are in labour has many positive benefits such as helping you to remain relaxed, feel more in control of your labour, have more confidence in your body, have a shorter first stage of labour and a reduced need for pain relief.

Sadly these days, it is all too common for midwives to be tied up with busy wards and administration which leaves them little time to forge a relationship with the mother, let alone provide the support they require. Some women will often have very loving and supportive partners who wish to attend the birth and often this is assumed to be enough for the labouring woman. But all too often fathers can (naturally) feel anxious and apprehensive, which is extremely contagious to the labouring mother and can inhibit the birth to progress. I often find fathers that wish to attend are extremely happy and grateful for having support from a Doula too.

In addition to this, RESEARCH has shown that having a doula present at a birth ;

- Shortens first-time labour by an average of 2 hours
- Decreases the chance of caesarean section by 50%
- Decreases the need for pain medication
- Helps fathers participate with confidence
- Increases success in breastfeeding
(Findings from "Mothering the Mother" Klaus, Kennell & Klaus, 1993)

The Doula Services
I work as a Antenatal/Birth and Postnatal Doula where I can offer support before and during the birth and postnatally, however the mother may wish. During the antenatal period, we discuss any previous birth experiences or any questions you may have and then also the birth plan or simply your wishes for the birth. My first visit is free and can be done at either my home or your home or in a coffee shop - depending where you feel most comfortable. This enables you to get to know me, see how you feel and think about whether you would like you use me as your Doula, remembering you are under no obligation at all.

Antenatally, we will meet at least twice with meetings no less than 2 hours long. You can call with me any questions you have, any concerns or simply for reassurance and support before the birth. During the birth I will attend when you call and remain with you throughout. If you require the Postnatal service, I can provide experienced and trained breastfeeding support if you wish with other parts differing greatly depending on the needs of you and your family. I can assist with many household tasks, enable you to get some rest and generally make sure life with your new baby is a calm and happy event.

I do not go on call for more than one family at a time; please contact me in the first instance to discuss availability. I am willing to travel up to an hour from my home in South Warwickshire to provide doula services. I work closely with my friend and colleague Kedi Simpson, and we provide back-up for each other. You can visit her website, www.kedisimpson.com, for more information about her services. For other local doulas, visit Doula UK.

The Full Antenatal, Birth and Postnatal Doula Package £250
This includes:
2-3 Antenatal Meetings of no less than 2 hours each. - This can include attending any antenatal appointments with you or any course you choose to attend where you feel you might want your Doula.
Unlimited support via the telephone or email. You will have my mobile number and therefore must feel you can contact me if you need support or further information. I am there for you!
On call for your birth from 37-42 (plus!) weeks.
Attending your birth for however long it takes.
2-3 Postnatal Visits. (with Antenatal and postnatal visits totaling a maximum of 5 visits - you choose where you would prefer to use them).
Additional meetings not covered by this agreement can be made at a charge of £26.50 per hour.
(Monthly payment of fees can be discussed if required)

Please email me or call 0845 057 0198 to find out more information regarding the Full Doula Services ( which covers Antenatal/Birth and Postnatal) or the PostNatal Services only.