SUNFLOWER DOULA SERVICES

Birth Doula Services and Childbirth Preparation Classes

What is a Doula?

Doula is Greek for "woman who serves another woman". Over time it has evolved into meaning a woman who is a professional labor assistant. A doula can be an experienced mother guiding a new mother through the process of birth and newborn care. A doula does not have to be a mother at all. It can be a person who gives emotional and physical support as comfort without experiencing birth themselves. This can be done in a hospital, at a birthing center, or in a woman's home.

A doula does not perform medical tasks such as vaginal exams, blood pressure checks, or give medications. There are many types of doulas: Birth Doulas, Postpartum Doulas, and Antepartum Doulas. Doulas are not meant to replace a partner or a family member. They can actually enhance the participation of the partner/family member during labor.

     What is an Antepartum Doula?

An Antepartum Doula supports mothers who are on bed rest or are having a high risk pregnancy. I provide emotional, physical, and practical support. This can range from in-home childbirth preparation classes, helping prepare the nursery, grocery shopping, to helping provide birth related resources and information.

I myself was on bed rest the last month of my pregnancy and remember how confusing and frustrating this period was in what many had said should be the happiest time in my life. I want to help other moms-to-be and families who need some support and comfort.

      Benefits of Having a Doula

Women cared for during labor by a birth doula, compared to those receiving usual care were

  • 50% reduction in cesarean rate
  • 25% shorter labor
  • 60% reduction in epidural requests
  • 40% reduction in artificial oxytocin use
  • 30% reduction in analgesia use
  • 40% reduction in forceps delivery
“Mothering the Mother: How a Doula Can Help You Have a Shorter Easier and Healthier Birth”, Klaus, Kennell, and Klaus (1993).

Doula Information

There are several organizations that have information on doulas.

  • Doulas of North America (DONA International)
  • Longmont Doulas
  • Colorado Doula Association
  • Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Assocation
  • International Childbirth Education Association
  • Childbirth Education Specialists