labor support from a doula 

 As a trained labor doula I provide ongoing physical and emotional support for the mother and her partner.  Typically we will meet twice prior to your birth and once following your birth, usually around three days later so that I can help with breastfeeding.


I come to your home when you are no longer comfortable being alone and can move with you to your planned birth location.  I will stay with you throughout labor and birth.  Once baby has arrived and is nursing and mom is ready to rest I will sneak away to allow you some private time.

I am available "on call" to you two weeks prior and two weeks post labor.  Please feel free to contact me as needed during that time.  

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do I need a doula? 

The presence of a doula has been shown to improve communication between the laboring woman and her birth team.  It has also been shown to decrease medical interventions in labor and improve the well being of both mothers and newborns.  A few statistics [1] include:

• 50% reduction in cesarean births
  
• 25% shorter labor
  
• 60% reduction of epidural request
  
• 40% reduction in oxytocin use
  
• 30% reduction in analgesic use
  
• 40% reduction in forceps delivery

[1] Klaus, Kennel, Klaus Mothering the Mother 1993

 Serving Vancouver, WA and Portland, OR metro areas.  For Questions or to set an appointment: mailto:lynette@naturalbirthfirst.com Google voice: 206-552-0061