Cowichan Valley Childbirth ~ 1109 Paradise Close, Cowichan Bay, BC, V0R 1N2 Phone: 1.250.480-9712 ~ Email: cowichanchildbirth@shaw.ca
WHAT IS A DOULA ? The word, "doula," comes from the Greek word for the most important female slave or servant in an ancient Greek household, the woman who probably helped the lady of the house through her childbearing. Today the word has come to refer to "a woman experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the mother before, during and just after childbirth."
~ A doula is someone who provides non-clinical support and care to a woman (and her partner) during childbirth.
~ Women have complex needs during childbirth. In addition to the safety of modern obstetrical care, and the love and companionship provided by their partners, women need consistent, continuous reassurance, comfort, encouragement and respect. They need individualized care based on their circumstances and preferences. To this end, a doula works with a woman and her family, physicians, midwives and nurses with an aim to enhance communication and understanding.
~ With a Doula present, the pressure on the partner is also decreased, allowing participation at an optimum comfort level and increasing the enjoyment of the birth of the baby. Ideally, the Doula and the partner make the perfect support team for the woman, complementing each other's strengths.
WHY HIRE A DOULA ? Research has found that women who have one-on-one professional labor support tend to have shorter labors, fewer complications, and healthier newborns. Doulas also help foster a more relaxed postpartum environment as well, and enhance early mother-infant relationships, breastfeeding and family adjustments.
MY DOULA SERVICES I will come to your home for a free consultation to answer any questions you have around the role of a doula. When you have made the decision to hire me as your doula I will come for 2 more prenatal visits. I will talk with you about your plans for your birth and to go over any questions and concerns you have around labour and birth. I will be on call for when you go into labour and will come to your home as soon as you feel that you need me. I will stay with you throughout your entire labour and 2 –3 hours after you have given birth. I will make two post natal visits ensuring that breastfeeding is going well and that you and your baby are settled in well. I will be available by phone or email with any questions or concerns that you may have from the time you hire me until 6 weeks after you have given birth.
My Fee: I charge $350.00 for the above service. Payment plans can be arranged.
Additional postpartum support is available for $25.00 an hour / minimum two hours per day.
ARTICLES THAT HAVE BEEN WRITTEN ABOUT THE VALUE OF HAVING A DOULA
