Birth Doula Services

Historically, women have been attended and supported by other women during labor. However, in recent decades in hospitals worldwide, continuous support during labor has become the exception rather than the routine. Concerns about the consequent dehumanization of women's birth experiences have led to calls for a return to continuous support by women for women during labor.

Fifteen trials involving 12,791 women showed that continuous labor support reduces a woman's likelihood of having pain medication, increases her satisfaction and chances for 'spontaneous' birth, and has no known risks
Supportive care during labor may involve emotional support, information, and comfort measures. Such care may enhance normal labor processes and thus reduce the need for obstetric intervention. Women who received continuous labor support were less likely to use pain medications and were more likely to be satisfied and to give birth 'spontaneously' (with neither caesarean nor vacuum nor forceps). In general, labor support was more effective when it was provided by women who were not part of the hospital staff.

Hodnett ED, Gates S, Hofmeyr G J, Sakala C. Continuous support for women during childbirth. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2003, Issue 3. Art. No.: CD003766. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003766

What is a birth doula

A doula accompanies women in labor to help ensure a safe and satisfying birth experience. As a doula, I draw on my knowledge and experience to provide emotional support, physical comfort and, as needed, communication with the staff to make sure that you have the information you need to make informed decisions as they arise in labor. I can provide reassurance and perspective to you and your partner, make suggestions for labor progress, and help with relaxation, massage, positioning and other techniques for comfort. I am independent and self-employed. For references and information on my personal experience, please don't hesitate to ask. There are also testimonials on my website www.PattyCakeBirthingServices.com

Choosing a doula

I prefer to meet with you and your partner first before you make any final decision about retaining my services. This meeting does not obligate you in any way. If you do select me, then I will want to meet with you a further two or three times to discuss your preferences regarding management options. I also want to know your own best ways of coping with pain and fatigue and how you and your partner foresee working together. In our meetings I also provide you with information to complement your prenatal classes. I am also available by telephone (541)556-8415 Email: pcmidwife@gmail.com  consultations.  Mindful Birth Preparation classes are included in my services. 

I will also inform you of the rare times when I may be unavailable for labor support. To cover those times, I can arrange one or more back-up doulas whom you can also meet. Of course, you have as much choice over your back-up as your primary doula.

When you are in labor

I prefer that you call me when you think you are in labor, even if you do not yet need me. I can answer questions and make suggestions over the phone. Together we will decide if I should come right then or wait for further changes (I usually need approximately 30-45minutes to get to you from the time you ask me to come). We will also decide where to meet - at your home, birth center or the hospital. Except for extraordinary circumstances, I or my back-up will remain with you throughout the labor and birth.

After the birth

I usually remain with you for one or two hours after the birth, until you are comfortable and your family is ready for quiet time together. I can also help with initial breastfeeding if you wish. I am available for phone contact to answer questions about the birth or your baby and would like to get together with you within two to three weeks to see how you are doing, to review your birth, and to get feedback from you about my role.

Limitations of my doula practice

As a doula, I do not make decisions for you. I will help you get the information necessary to make an informed decision. I will also gently remind you if there is a departure from the "plans" you had prior to the labor. 

As a doula, I do not perform clinical tasks such as blood pressure readings and fetal heart checks.  I am there to provide only physical comfort, emotional support, and advocacy. However, I will preform vaginal exams on women in labor if they request and have not had their amniotic waters rupture.

Other Services Available Include:  Belly Casting, and Blessingways 

Please contact me for questions and information about my fees. 

Patricia M. Couch
Phone: (541) 556-8415

Email: Email: pcmidwife@gmail.com