Doula Services

Postpartum

Postpartum doula cares for the mother and her family in their home in the first few weeks following the birth. The doula provides non-medical support and companionship, assists with newborn care and sibling adjustment, meal preparation and household organization. The doula offers evidence-based information on newborn feeding, emotional and physical recovery from childbirth and other issues related to the postpartum period.

Postpartum provides emotional, physical and educational support only. The doula does not preform clinical or medical tasks, such as examining the mother of baby, or taking temperatures, blood pressure checks or any other type of postpartum clinical care.

Reference: DONA Standards of Practice: Postpartum Doula

 

Birth

 

The doula accompanies the woman in labor, provides emotional and physical support, suggests comfort measures, and provides support and suggestions for the partner. Whenever possible, the doula provides pre- and post-partum emotional support, including explanation and discussion of practices and procedures, and assistance in acquiring the knowledge necessary for the client to make informed decisions about their own care. Additionally, as doulas do not “prescribe” treatment, any suggestions or information provided within the role of the doula must be done with the proviso that the doula advises his/her client to check with the primary care provider before using any application.

The doula advocates for the clients wishes as expressed in her birth plan, in prenatal conversations, and intrapartum discussions, by encouraging his/her client to ask questions of her care provider and to express her preferences and concerns. The doula helps the mother incorporate changes in plans if an when the need arises, and enhances the communication between client and care provider. Clients and doulas must recognize that the advocacy role does not include the doula speaking instead of the client or making decisions for the client. The advocacy role is best describe as support, information and mediation or negotiation.

Reference: DONA Standards of Practice: Birth Doula