The Navajo Indians of Arizona call the woman who assists a birthing woman “the one who holds”. This conveys the helper’s responsibility to support and massage the new mother.

Doula is a Greek word that means “woman caregiver.” At one time it was common for women to gather together to empower and support one another. It was the women who helped prepare and care for women through pregnancy, birth and postpartum.

A birth doula is there to inspire confidence in her innate capacity to give birth, as well as encourage her to discover her desires for her birth experience. Numerous studies have found that a Doula’s presence at your birth…

• Results in shorter labors with fewer complications.
• Reduces inductions and other medical interventions.
• Reduces mothers requesting pain medication.
• Increases parents feelings of security and being cared cared for after the birth.
• Helps parents be more successful in adapting to new family dynamics and have greater self confidence.
• Improves the rate of breastfeeding success.

A Postpartum Doula has experience and skills to assist you so that you can best take care of your new baby. A Postpartum Doula

• Eases the transition for both parents , helping them to adapt to this new situation.
• Provides emotional support and encouragement.
• Helps with baby care and breastfeeding.
• Gives advice on self-care, nutrition and postpartum healing.
• Offers meal preparation, errands, light housekeeping and laundering.