What is a Doula?
What are the benefits of having a Doula?
When I first started practicing as a perinatal nurse, it was evident that there was a disconnection between the hospital system and the availability of support services through the mystical and empowering process of pregnancy. As wonderfully trained and compassionate our medical professionals are, the system is being overused and tired-and they need more support. Having a doula by your side, figuratively and physically, can allow you and your family to be prepared, supported and guided through this beautiful journey. Doulas, specifically, perinatal doulas can help guide persons through pregnancy, labor and the postpartum period. Depending on your doulas’ experience and training, they will be able to support any specific needs such as prenatal education, labor coaching, breastfeeding support, how to include the partner and family in maximizing participation and involvement, etc.
Based on my experience and training over the past decade, I have been incredibly fortunate to have worked in various work settings within different communities all over Canada. Having a medical background as a baccalaureate nurse has helped me understand the anatomy and physiology of pregnancy, the reason why things have been medicalized during the pregnancy and postpartum period, etc. That being said, I have also been witness to the power of a non-medicated birth and delivery, and has encouraged me to seek further alternative methods to help support the body and the mind throughout this incredibly difficult and miraculous event. By creating a symbiotic environment of knowledge and experience between the natural and the many possibilities of pregnancy and birth, I am your guide through this journey. Seeing the importance of these two sides has not only solidified my passion for holistic fertility practices, but encouraged me to continue seeking ways we can use the tools and information around us to always practice in the best and safest manner.
Choosing a doula can help with prenatal education, labour support/coaching and a more comprehensive understanding of labour positions, decrease need for intervention in labour, help establish early breastfeeding, can empower moms and families for this new life, improve mother-baby bonding, and can help adapt to the unforeseen circumstances.
For any questions about my doula practice and what services I provide, I would be happy to answer all requests with a free consultation via phone, in-person, video-chat, and/or text. <3
