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What are the benefits of
using a Doula?
Studies have shown
the following benefits of having a Birth
Doula present at birth:
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50% reduction in c-section rates
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25% shorter labour
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60% reduction in epidural requests
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40% reduction in Oxytocin use
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30% reduction in analgesia use
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40% reduction in forceps or vacuum deliveries
Women who have used a Doula
are more satisfied with their birth experience, feel more
confident in their ability to mother, bond faster with their
newborn, are less likely to have Postpartum Depression, and
are more likely to breastfeed. ~ Klaus, Kennel, and Klaus
2001
I
am planning an Epidural for my Birth. Do I need a Doula?
Absolutely. Once
the decision is made to have an epidural I will be able to
help expedite the process as well as support you until the
pain medication takes effect. It is my philosophy to provide
continuous support with or without an epidural. With an
epidural it is important to continue with position changes
while resting. I will make sure that you and your partner
are comfortable. Once the pushing stage begins you may need
help supporting your legs and also changing positions as
needed. With the proper support we can help you to hands and
knees, side lying, even a squat. You do not have to be flat
on your back.
What training have you had?
I am trained and
certified as a labor doula through Childbirth
International. The certification involved a six week hands
on childbirth class; a curriculum focus on communication
skills, physiology, and birth doula skills; birth
evaluations; readings; and an essay. I continue to enhance
my training with workshops and Continuous Education Units
beyond my certification. In addition to my certification I
am informed by a strong background in mind and body training
with a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education (University
of Puget Sound, Tacoma, WA), a Master’s in Health, Leisure
and Sport Studies and Ph.D. coursework in Sport Studies at
the University of Iowa.
Is doula care
covered by my flex spending account or my health insurance?
Yes and maybe.
Yes, flex spending is covered for certified doulas. I will
compile an invoice that you can submit through your flex
spending under the category “childbirth education and
services.” Insurance providers have recently allocated a
code for certified doula services. Please contact your
provider.
When
should I contact you?
I have had potential clients call before they were pregnant,
the day they found out they were pregnant, all the way
through to a week prior to their due date. The benefit of
hiring me earlier is having access to my service and
resources and also guaranteeing your spot.
Do you have a backup doula for times when you are not
available? Yes, a backup will be available if I am
unavailable due to an emergency, illness or if I am at
another birth. I will discuss with you which member of the
Iowa City Doulas cooperative you would like as your backup.
Can you provide references?
Yes, I have a list of references who have agreed to speak
with prospective clients. Please ask them what they did and
did not like about working with me. I encourage you to talk
to your care provider as well. Please visit the Testimonials
and Doulas and Partners pages.
Four point
guarantee:
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You can
interview before you commit. A free consultation allows
for the opportunity to assess a good match, review your
needs, and my services.
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No pressure to
decide on the spot. I require that you go home to
discuss your options as a family. I strongly encourage
you to contact other Iowa City Doulas, contact my
references and discuss doula support with your care
provider.
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No service =
no payment. I do not submit your second payment until
after your birth. If I or my back up doula are unable to
attend your birth due to an unforeseen event, such as a
natural disaster or extremely fast birth, the second
check will be returned to you.
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I will not
accept you as a client if I feel that we are an ill
fitting match or if there are circumstances that will
hinder me from providing my services to the best of my
ability. I will, in such a case refer you to a doula who
can better serve your needs.
Professional
qualities that Bamboo Birth families have valued:
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My clients
want to work with a recognized expert and professional
as evidenced by my publishing, speaking engagements, and
professionally executed service
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My clients
seek experience, certification, and birth expertise
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My clients
respect my leadership role and cooperative approach
within both the birth and natural planning communities
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My clients
appreciate my efficiency, organization, honesty,
flexibility, and straightforward approach
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My clients
seek a calm, compassionate, unbiased presence
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Both my
clients and the UIHC hospital staff appreciate a doula
who will complement the birth team by being diplomatic,
cooperative, and non-judgmental in the birthing space.
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