Doula
Your Best Birth
The bed is set up and lined with the softest sheets you could find. The nursery is painted in the perfect colors for your baby. Tiny clothes and tinier socks have been carefully tucked into drawers and baskets. You've sat in the rocking chair envisioning the day you finally get to hold your sweet new baby. Everything is ready to go and now begins the wait.
Waiting for your birthing time to start.
No matter how or where you choose to give birth, I can help. I can help in the hours before you head to the hospital while you labor at home. I can help you understand what your options are and then support you in your decisions. I can give you continuous support throughout this life-changing time in your life. I can help your partner know how they can assist you. I can facilitate communication between you, your partner, and your care provider.
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You deserve to experience the best birth possible. Your best birth will look different from another woman's best birth because you are unique. You are an individual, and your birthing experience will be specific to you and this baby. However you choose to have your baby, I want to support you and help you have your best birth possible.
-Amanda Jenkins, Certified Doula
Common Questions about Doulas
Q: What is a doula?
A: The word "doula" comes from the ancient Greek meaning "a woman who serves" and is now used to refer to a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous practical, emotional and informational support to the mother and her partner before, during and just after birth.
Q: What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?
A: A midwife, much like an OBGYN, provides medical care for a woman throughout her pregnancy and during labor. In contrast, doulas do not provide medical care. Instead they offer information and emotional help and assist the mother to navigate through the many choices and options she has throughout the process.
Q: Do you only do home or "natural" births?
A: No. Doulas offer support to women regardless of what type of birth they are planning whether it be a home water birth or a planned cesarean.
Q: Why do people hire doulas?
A: Studies have shown that women who have doula support during labor and birth have more satisfying birth experiences. Labors are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier, and they breastfeed more easily.