Looking for a doula but not sure where to start? Come join other new and expectant parents to learn about the benefits of birth doula services.  Meet the Doulas Night includes an overview of what doulas do, the benefits of doula services, and how to find the right doula for you. Birth doulas from the community participate to answer parents’ questions. Time will also be provided for parents to meet individually with doulas in a “speed dating” format.

Meet the Doulas Night is a community service provided by Om Baby Pregnancy & Parenting Center. Om Baby does not endorse specific doulas.

There is no fee for the event, and all are welcome.  If you are not sure you want to have a doula at your birth, or are even unsure of what a doula is, this is a great opportunity to meet several local birth doulas without making any commitments towards hiring just yet.

About Professional Birth Doulas

A birth doula, or childbirth assistant, offers non-medical, one-to-one care during pregnancy and the birth of your baby. This service makes available the nurturing care and support that traditional obstetrical care isn't always able to provide.

A birth doula supports you and your partner by providing the knowledge, comfort, and education necessary for a fulfilling birth experience, using techniques such as:

• massage

• breathing techniques and vocalization

• counterpressure

• visualization

• relaxation

• education and advocacy

This doula support allows the laboring woman's partner a greater sense of relaxation, and therefore an increased ability to care for the mother-to-be on an emotional level.

Clinical studies show the benefits of working with a birth doula include:

• 50% reduction in cesarean rates

• 25% reduction in the length of labor

• 60% reduction in the rate of epidural use

• 40% reduction in the need for forceps

• higher breastfeeding rates

Other benefits include:

• higher levels of confidence in partners as coaches

• increased maternal sense of satisfaction in the birth

• overall sense of well-being following delivery

• easier transition into parenthood

Your birth doula will meet with you prenatally, offer phone support, provide early labor support in your home, and work with you throughout active labor and birth in your chosen setting. She will make at least one follow-up visit during your early postpartum period.

Doulas Wanting to Attend Meet the Doula Night :

To join us as a professional Doula for Meet the Doula Night, please contact Om Baby at holly@ombabycenter.com.

Labor/Birth Doula Training:

Introduction to Childbirth for Doulas - June 8, 2012

Supporting the Woman in Labor - June 9 & 10, 2012