Birth Doula
Wondering what a doula does?
Here is the link for a radio show I was featured on with Dr. Virdee discussing the role of a doula:
https://soundcloud.com/wpkn895/seeking-wellness-march-25-2017-interview-with-doula-sarah-schindler
A Doula provides labor support for Mom and partner during labor. This may begin at her home and transition to the hospital. Doula's are trained birth professionals who have many tools in their bag to assist the labor and birthing process. They may help to guide baby into the optimal position for birth, provide comfort measures and emtional support for Mom and Dad or partner. They do not take the place of the father, family member or support person but rather is there for the entire labor to support the family. A doula knows your legal rights in the birthing room and is prepared to discuss your choices throughout labor as they arise. Often a woman’s most reliable professional attendant, you can trust she will be at your birth even if your medical providers have a rotating staff. Your doula understands how to support both the mother and partner while respecting the intimacy of the family’s birthing experience.
Studies have shown the women supported by a doula have:
25% shorter labor times
50% reduction in cesarean section
40% less need for Pitocin
30% of women requested less pain medication
60% reduction in requesting epidural
40% less use of foreceps
Research also showed that the mother had an overall greater satisfaction with the entire experience and suffered less postpartum depression. For babies, it showed shorter hospital stays, fewer NICU admissions, and more successful breastfeeding.
The fee includes 1-2 prenatal visits where we will learn about each other to see if we are a good match and to answer any questions that you or your partner may have. We will also meet to make a birth plan. Our goal is to understand what you desire for your birth and to learn as much about you and your goals so that we can be the best support to you. The fee also includes on-call support. Unlimited phone and e-mail support to answer your questions and offer suggestions and support throughout pregnancy and early labor, and in the early weeks and months of parenting your new baby. The official on-call period begins at 38 weeks, when I set aside all obligations and prepare to join you in labor. Continuous support during labor includes me meeting you at your home when your labor becomes established, and provide physical, emotional, and informational support for you and your partner for the duration of labor and birth. I can facilitate communication with medical staff, and help you hold and move towards the vision you created for your baby’s birth. I may remind you about important questions to ask your care provider, suggest position changes, comfort techniques for your partner to try, I may breathe and move with you, take photos if you wish, and I will always remain mindful of your birth plan. I will be a constant supportive hand and voice to help you and your partner through the transformative experience of birth. I will be by your side until you and your new baby are settled comfortably, nursing, and nourished. As well as a postpartum follow up, to celebrate the birth of your baby, review and process your birth experience, answer any questions you have during the early postpartum period, and bring you your edited birth photos. Please see postpartum doula for a more complete list of topics we can cover.
Dr. Schindler's birth fees are $1,500 because of her extensive education and training. Flexible payment plans are available to make this obtainable.