DOULA

What is a Doula?

A doula is a person that provides practical, emotional, and informative support to the birthing person and the family.

They can be there during the prenatal period, during birth and postnatally.

A doula advocates for the birthing person and can communicate the wishes of the parents to the medical care providers.

A doula believes that everyone deserves the right to a dignified birth, and that everyone has the information and support they need to facilitate the birth they want.

"if a doula were a drug, it would be unethical not to use it"

DR JOHN KENNEL

THE DOULA EFFECT

In 2017, Bohren et al. published an updated Cochrane review on the use of continuous support for women during childbirth. ⁠

It shows that having continuous support from a doula -

Increases your chances of a spontaneous labour

Shorter labours by 41 mins on average
Lowers the risk of a caesarean birth
Lowers risk of instrumental birth

Reduces chances of induction
Reduces your need for pain relief and medication
Reduces the chances of postnatal depression
Increases chances of successfully establishing breastfeeding

It is also known that people who have doulas feel more satisfied with their birth experience

HOW I CAN HELP YOU

I am a Bristol doula, but I also cover parts of Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Somerset and Wales.

I offer a trauma informed holistic approach and will always tailor my packages and services to suit each family individually.

I believe the 4th trimester is the most important part of your journey and offer a range of support to you and your family to make your transition into parenthood a little easier so you can enjoy your time together in those first few weeks.

As your doula I will provide constant support to you during the pregnancy and birth process. Providing information, emotional support and care. Helping you to shape your own birth experience and to help you understand the ability of the human body to work well during labour. I can help you reach your goals for your birth which ever birth you chose.

I will not take the place of a partner but support them so they can support you in the best way.

As your postnatal doula will visit you in your home, to support your transition into parenthood. I can provide information and support with feeding, sleeping, infant care, I can take care of siblings and help with general household tasks.

I can be there to hold space, to listen and make lots of tea.