Doula
"Doula" (pronounced doola) is a Greek word meaning caregiver. It now refers to a professional labour supporter and postnatal helper. She is there to offer emotional and practical support and act as your advocate during labour. A doula is totally committed to "mothering the mother".
Some of the benefits of having a doula are:- Labour can be shortened by 25%
- Can decrease the need for pain medication
- 50% less likely to have a caesarean
- Helps mothers feel secure, in control and boosts self-esteem
BIRTH DOULA
A birth doula is there for both you and your partner. She is there to stay with you during your labour as either a birth partner or to look after any other siblings. She is there to help make your birth a positive and enjoyable one and to help you feel relaxed.
A doula is not there in a clinical role or to offer advice or make decisions for you.
I charge £250 for the birth doula package and this includes:- An initial booking and consultation
- 2 Antenatal visits lasting 1-2 hours
- On call 2 weeks before your due date and 2 weeks after (24/7)
- Continuous support during labour
- E-mail support
POSTNATAL DOULA
To help you and your family enjoy your new arrival, you may benefit from some postnatal support. New mothers usually require around 6-10 hours of assistance spread out over the first couple of months. I offer the following services:
- Practical advice on caring for your baby
- Help with feeding, whether you are breastfeeding or bottle
- Care for your baby while you rest of have some 'me time'
- Occupy siblings while you bond with you baby
- Light housework eg: washing up, ironing, dusting, and hoovering
- Food shopping (This is at your own expense and should be paid for up front)
- Someone to chat to
My hourly rate is £20 and I charge 50p per mile for travel expenses. Being a mother myself I am not available evenings or nights. However, I can always be contacted by telephone if you need any help or support.
