A labor doula attends to the birthing family before, during and just after the birth of the baby. I am trained to deliver emotional support from home to hospital (or birthing center), ease the transition into the hospital environment and be there through changing hospital shifts and alternating provider schedules. I serve as an advocate, a labor coach and an information source throughout the entire labor.

Studies have shown that women supported by a doula during labor have:

• 50% reduction in cesarean rate
• 25% shorter labor
• 60% reduction in epidural requests
• 40% reduction in Oxytocin use
• 30% reduction in analgesia use
• 40% reduction in forceps delivery

Information was obtained from Mothering the Mother: How a Doula Can Help You Have a Shorter, Easier, and Healthier Birth by Klaus, Kennell, Klaus (1993)

My labor package includes 2 prenatal meetings; the first of which is where we meet to see if a doula is right for your family and the second is where I help you shape a birth wish list or a "birth plan"; the labor and birth itself; and 2 postpartum visits. The entire fee is $550, payable in two sums, a non-refundable $200 upon signing a contract for services and the remainder within 7 days after the birth of your child.

Helpful links

• Expectant Mother's Guide: a localized pregnancy, childbirth, and baby resource guide for expectant and new parents. Link is to a specific article about doulas, site is helpful in general.
• Do I Need a Doula?: Answers to frequently asked questions.

All information contained within this website is the sole property of Before, During & After, A Complete Doula Service. Permission must be obtained before use of this materials, even in an educational setting.