A doula offers non-medical guidance and support for pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. They empower women and couples to make informed decisions, providing emotional and physical assistance throughout the process. Rooted in ancient traditions, doulas have been supporting women during childbirth for centuries across various cultures.

• As a doula, I am your and your partner's support person during pregnancy, labour and post-birth so you can experience an empowered birth. Every pregnancy and birth is different. 

• It is well known that women who feel supported and safe in labour are more likely to have better outcomes and a smoother recovery. For centuries and in most cultures, women are assisted by a doula, who knows the process of labour and what is required to keep the woman safe and calm so she can do the deep work of birthing her baby.

Midwife:

• A healthcare professional providing medical care

• Can conduct medical assessments and procedures

Doula: 

• A non-medical support person offering physical, emotional and informational support

• Doulas are not licensed healthcare providers and do not perform medical procedures. Instead, they provide support such as massage, breathing techniques, and emotional reassurance to help women cope with the physical and emotional challenges of pregnancy and childbirth.

• Focuses on empowering mothers to make informed decisions and ensure a positive birthing experience

Most midwives and hospitals encourage the presence of a doula, as it offers more support for the birthing mother and allows for the medical team to attend to their duties of admin work and looking after other birthing women.

A doula does not replace a medical care provider but instead, works alongside to compliment the care provided to the mother by providing all the essential information you need to feel confident and informed. While midwives and doulas have different roles, they can work together to provide comprehensive support to pregnant women. Women can choose to work with both a midwife and a doula to receive medical care and emotional support during their pregnancy and childbirth journey.

• Meet with you several times to connect and build a strong and caring connection, so you and your partner feel supported by me. 

• Speak with you about your wishes and hopes for your labour, birth and postpartum.

• Help you write your birth plan if you choose to have one. 

• Answer your questions as they arise, no matter how many - I am here to answer them. 

• Show your partner how you are best supported during labour (massage, positions etc.).

• I will lend you books and provide videos so that you can educate yourself further and learn more about birth and the postpartum time. 

• Debrief previous births if this is not your first birth.

• Explore your birth options.

• Help provide you with resources for your health and nutrition.

• Talk and help you with your worries and anxieties.

• Women who work with me feel strong, nourished, supported and informed.

• Massage, hip squeeze, rebozo, make you a bath etc., to make you as comfortable as possible

• Support you and your partner and answer all your questions as they arise

• Keep you hydrated and fed (with the right foods and drinks) during labour

• Guide your partner (and other family members) to best support you

• Keep you moving and resting according to your need and stage in labour

• Help you stay in line with your wishes and goals for your desired labour

• Notify and update your friends and family of your progress if you wish

• Stay with you after the delivery of your baby to ensure your baby has begun breastfeeding

• Help you with breastfeeding and baby care at home

• Help you settle into the new way of life

• Answer your questions

• Debrief the birth 

• Support you through potential emotional changes

• Show you slings and belly support as needed

• Available via phone and email in the postpartum 

• Ensure you receive the right care that you need 

• Be more confident in knowing your options during labour and birth

• Have the information and support you need so you can surrender and relax fully during labour and birth

• Feel more connected with your birth partner and medical support people

• Your partner will be more relaxed and supported because he/she is also supported by me

• Reduce your chances of intervention 

• Have a solid postpartum plan that supports everyone in your family and reduces your chances of stress and anxiety

• Improve your health and well-being by connecting you with abundant resources local to you.

• Essential tips and guidance for pregnancy, labor and beyond

• Physiological and medical information for any birth plan

• Explore meditations, visualizations, breathwork and more

• Partner and relationship guidance

At all stages, I'm fully invested in your comfort, safety and empowerment. Throughout your pregnancy, I will keep you informed and equipped with knowledge, and help you prepare for birth. At birthing time, I can advocate for you and your family, protecting and reinforcing your birth preferences.

• I provide emotional, educational and physical support during pregnancy, birthing and beyond. From relaxation techniques to strength and stamina building, and resources I’m here for you.

• Dedicated to providing you with all the essential information and support you need to feel confident and empowered during this special time.

Qualifications:

I am a certified doula trained through Awakened Spirit Yoga, where I had the privilege of learning from esteemed teachers Stephanie Atunes and Julia Forest. My training focused on providing holistic support to families during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. With a deep understanding of the physical and emotional needs of birthing individuals, I am dedicated to offering compassionate care, informed guidance, and empowering advocacy throughout the birthing journey.

Currently, I work with Natalie Conoly for mentorship, a Doula located in Steamboat Springs Colorado, meeting weekly for guidance and support. Natalie is available to answer any questions that I may have at any time. This work truly takes a village, and I am grateful to learn from her extensive experience and wisdom.