Labor Doula

In ancient times women gathered to help laboring women in a protected setting. Modern day doulas are a great way to harness this ancient spirit of birthing with other women.

As a doula, Laurel is trained to discuss your birth preferences, perform pain-relieving techniques during labor, help the family to make clear decisions as the labor progresses and help with the initial bonding with the newborn. Most importantly, Laurel provides continuous support for the mother. She does not replace the role of the partner, rather assists the process in a non-judgmental and supportive manner.

Doulas have been shown to reduce the rate of cesarean section, epidural and pitocin use and improve overall maternal satisfaction. The babies benefit too as doula assisted births report shorter hospital stays, fewer admissions to the intensive care unit and higher incidences of successful breastfeeding.