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The word
doula comes from ancient Greek and is now used to refer to a
woman who helps other women. It has been applied to childbirth
to refer to a woman experienced in childbirth who provides
continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the
mother before, during and just after childbirth.
Research
indicates that the presence of a doula can:
- Decrease overall cesarean rate by 50%
- Decrease the length of labor by 25%
- Decrease use of pitocin by 40%
- Decrease use of pain medication by 30%
- Decrease epidural requests by 60%
- Decrease use of forceps by 40%
Studies have also shown that women attended by doulas have
reduction in secondary complications such as fever and
infections, newborn problems and postpartum depression. A doulas
presence also increases the parents satisfaction with the birth
experience.
Doula package includes:
2 pre-natal visits
with massage
Formulation of a birth plan
24/7 telephone or email support
Attendance and support during labor and delivery
Birth log and pictures (optional)
Postpartum visit
Newborn massage classes also available.
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