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.
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.
**As a new member of Doula UK I am currently working as
a 'trainee' and therefore can only charge £150 for a Full
Doula Services (Antenatal/Birth and Postnatal). Please take
this opportunity to use the reduced fee while you
can**
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.