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Welcome to Willow Doula!

What is a Doula?

In Greek, Doula means "Woman Caregiver."
A birth doula is an experienced labor companion who provides a woman and her partner the emotional and physical support she needs throughout the pregnancy, delivery, and sometime after delivery, as a post partum doula.

Doulas use their experience and training to provide comfort in the form of ideal labor positions, pressure point therapy, massage techniques, aroma therapies, and coaching through your chosen breathing and relaxation methods. A doula offers encouragement and support through constant positive reinforcement and motivation that reassures you of your ability to give birth to your baby.

I believe in a doula for every woman going through this wonderful life experience! I charge on a flat rate system with flexible payments plans, and feel money should NEVER be reason to not receive support. Bartering (Continuing Education Materials, Landscaping, Sewing/Knitting, Home services/Repair etc.) is even considered in special circumstances. Email me for a current list of acceptable barters.
Please never hesitate to contact me.

What about my partner?

The role of your partner does not change. Your partner, if he or she chooses, will continue to remain a pivotal part of your birth experience. The doula's role should never interfere with the desires of your partner. Consider the two to be a tag-team of sorts, meeting your needs as the laboring woman. When your partner rests, your doula remains at your side. When your partner is unsure of what to do, or how to do it, your doula will help. If your partner is concerned, your doula will support and reassure them as well.

Does having a Doula really help?

Reports have shown:

• Labors are shorter by an average of 98 minutes.
• There are fewer delivery complications.
• Cesarean rates are reduced by 51%
• The need for pitocin to speed up labor is reduced by 71%
• The use of forceps is reduced by 57%
• Women's requests for pain medication and epidurals reduced by 35%
• Having a doula enhances bonding and breastfeeding.
• It reduces anxiety levels in the parents.
• It increases maternal self-esteem.
• It reduces the emotional post-partum period.
Source: "The Doula Book" 2nd Edition by Marshall H. Klaus, 1993