Like many doulas, I believe in the power of birth as a normal, natural event, not a dangerous anomaly. I've seen firsthand the way that birth can transform women - they become mothers, of course, but they also gain a tremendous strength and confidence in themselves.
I'm honest enough to admit that I see a lot of flaws in the medical model of childbirth. I'm glad that hospitals are available when serious problems truly do occur, but I believe that the majority of interventions that are performed in the hospital are unnecessary.
I truly believe that pain-relieving drugs are unnecessary in childbirth, except in extreme cases. I wouldn't ask a woman to undergo a Cesarean section without anesthesia! But women can and do withstand the normal pain of labor, and it's worth it. Drug-free birth eliminates the risks that drugs pose to the mother and baby (and they do pose a significant risk). Labor is the only pain that has a purpose and a tremendous reward at the end.
A very important part of my job is helping women assess the risks and benefits of any intervention, drug or procedure, and make the decision for themselves. I can't tell you what to do, but neither can your doctor, nurse or midwife! Women have the right to control what happens to themselves and their babies, and I will help you make a truly informed decision.
I
welcome families of all configurations, including GLBT families, single
moms, and teen parents.
If you want a doula who will help make sure you get your epidural in the hospital parking lot, I'm not the doula for you. But if you truly want a safe, natural, peaceful, joyous labor and birth, I can help you achieve your goal. Whatever happens at your baby's birth, the rewards will be yours to keep.