Supporting Women in Their Childbirth Choices

Supported Birth of Arizona

13630 West Denton Street, Litchfield Park, Arizona  85340          Call Us At (623) 547-0980    

What is a Doula?

Even the best nurses are limited by hospital protocol, other patients, time restraints, personal belief systems, and of course, they don't know you!  A professional labor support companion (doula) is a woman trained to provide continuous emotional and physical support during active labor as needed: massage, help with birthing positions, herbal remedies and means of natural induction, a calm and reassuring presence, advocacy for your wishes in the hospital setting, initial breast feeding guidance, and more.  She does not have an "agenda" for your birth.  She is there to accompany you on your journey, assisting in the unforeseeable ways that will best empower YOU as an individual and as a couple.

 

“Won't my husband feel he's not "enough" to help me through labor?  Won't having another person there detract from our intimacy?  What if she "takes over"?”

 

Throughout history women have always attended other women during birth.  Now, husbands are expected to anticipate and fulfill their partner's intense needs through labor.  Men may feel fear, fatigue, helplessness, confusion, emotional upset, or intimidation.  One father said "It was like I had been given a map (in class) of Laborland, but once (She) was there; I realized that I had never been there.  The doula had been there - she knew the language and the way."

 

Studies show that couples feel an increase in intimacy when the pressure on the father is removed and he is free to experience the birth of his child.  A good doula is sensitive and understands that her role is to empower rather than to take charge.

 

“How do the hospitals view this?”

 

Nurses are generally very grateful for the continuous support to laboring women that they no longer have the time or resources to offer.  As long as they do not feel threatened or challenged, hospital staff is positive toward the added presence.  Mutual respect is the key.

 

“What if I want pain medication?”

 

Supported Birth doulas are objective and non-judgmental about how labor unfolds, there to empower you to make conscious choices.  This is your personal journey, and whatever you choose is right for you.

 

Doula Services

What is included in Supported Birth Doula Services?

 

Initial meeting is always free, we want to make sure you are completely comfortable with who you choose. This meeting can be by telephone or in person. It is a great opportunity to express your desires and relay what you expect from your doula.

 

Once you hire your doula you can expect at least two prenatal visits in your home. These visits will be a great opportunity to get to know one another, go over your expectations and wishes during labor, practice relaxation techniques and to answer any questions you may have. Your doula will also be available by phone and email for any additional questions or concerns. You may also request for your doula to attend a prenatal visit with you and your care provider. You will meet with her backup doula some time before the birth of your baby.

 

Towards the end of your pregnancy, you should expect contact with your doula on a daily basis.  She will want to call and check on you to see how you are feeling and provide any extra support you may need.  She may visit with you again to work on relaxing and preparing you for the upcoming birth.  Beginning at your 38th week she will be on call 24 hours a day.  Once labor starts you will need to call your doula to inform her of your progress whether you are ready for her to meet you or not.  Once you feel ready for her presence, she will come to your home or meet you at the hospital.

 

You will be provided with continual support throughout your labor and birth.  After the birth your doula will stay with you for a minimum of two hours to help with initial breastfeeding and to get you settled in.  Your doula will also come visit you in your home for a postpartum visit to go over your birth experience, share excitement, help answer any questions you may have and offer resources for postpartum care and support.  She may also bring you a "story" of her view on the birth and how it unfolded as a keepsake.

 

Many great relationships are built between a mother and her doula.  Each doula hopes to have a lasting impression of love and kindness left in the hearts of the women she cares for.  Supported Birth doulas strive to achieve this goal.

 

Most Supported Birth Doulas work on a sliding scale and will be willing to work with payment plans or adjust fees for families in need.