"Doula" comes from the ancient Greeks who selected a special "hand maiden" to attend the lady of the house during childbearing. Today, it refers to "a woman experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the mother before, during and just after childbirth" (Klaus, Kennell and Klaus - Mothering the Mother).

This ancient tradition is now becoming a modern trend, as the benefits of the personal care and attention become more and more apparent through documentation in controlled studies. Research has shown that a doula's presence results in a significant decrease in length of labor (25% on average), reduced requests for medication (60%), far fewer interventions (including oxytocin/ pitocin and forceps), reduced rate of newborn complications and neonatal hospitalization, and a 50% lower cesarean rate! Other benefits include a much higher breastfeeding rate and a reduction in postpartum depression.

How does the doula accomplish this? Doulas support the whole family by offering constant support, promoting comfort and relieving anxiety. During a typical birth a doula may be busy explaining hospital policy, reviewing risks and benefits of a particular intervention, providing an extra set of hands for massage and other assistance (giving dad a break), providing a unique perspective from one with experience and the ability to be objective, providing labor aids (birth balls, massage oil, position suggestions), taking pictures of the birth, and so much more!

Doula services include:
complimentary initial consultation
2 prenatal visits
assistance compiling birth plan
significant discounts on Birthing 101 classes / refresher courses
unlimited phone / email support during pregnancy and 3 months postpartum
on call 24/7 for the two weeks surrounding your due date
support during your entire labor and birth
up to 3 hours postpartum support
help with initial breastfeeding
1 postpartum visit

To ensure personal attention, Jessie has placed a limit on the number of clients she takes in a given time frame. The spots fill quickly and should be reserved as soon as possible to ensure availability. To inquire about pricing or availability or to request additional information, email Jessie.