What do birth doulas do?

A birth doula will provide support to the mother and her partner that is above all unconditional.  We do not judge, rather we listen.  Our goal is to help empower you to make the decisions that are best for you and your family.  Doulas create trust, comfort and knowledge along with much encouragement.  We are consistently with you throughout your labor.  We have experience with cues, sounds, facial expressions and can respond with appropriate comfort measures and encouragement.   We will hold consultations in your home or wherever you are comfortable.  We remind your partner or support person about the tools they have learned.  We provide education as needed and desired and can help with breastfeeding as well as support after the baby is born.  We are trained in looking for issues that may be of concern for postpartum depression and can make suggestions as appropriate for care and provide information.