Birth & Breastfeeding Resources As one whom his mother
comforts so shall I (God) comfort you in Jerusalem. Isaiah 66:11 Along the bank of the of the river, on this side and that, will grow all kinds of trees used for food; their leaves will not wither nor will their fruit fail. They will bear fruit every month, because water flows from the sanctuary. Their fruit will be for food and their leaves for medicine. Ezekiel 47:12
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I started out doing this for friends, and I really loved it. It is a privilege to serve families and moms as they give birth. Services are for a reasonable fee and need to be arranged and contracted for in advance. I prefer to get some time to know the family- it is easier to serve those with whom you have a relationship. The birth doula meets with the parents before the birth process. She makes sure they have attended a birth preparation class. She also works with the family and their birth plan. She understands that it is a time for education but the birth plan and time belongs to the family. She is there sometimes with the couple for a prenatal visit. She is also ready for questions and phone calls- unless it is an imminent birth or other emergency, respect her time and try to get to her before bedtime or by a pre arranged night time number. She is then "on call" usually for 2 weeks prior and after moms due date. The doula is not always a typical healthcare professional- like a nurse, doctor or monitrice, but she is a professional, one who feels a calling to service. When or if she is a health care professional she usually only performs comfort techniques. She is not a baby sitter for other children while the mom is in labor. However a postpartum doula may do some baby-sitting, light chores or helps the mom with baby. Packages and services for a postpartum doula are separate and different than a birth doula. Now a good doula is worth paying for. It takes time away from her family and life. Most birth doulas are on call 24-7 two weeks before and after the mom’s due date. And she is there throughout the birth process if it is 2 hours or two days. There are a variety of contracts and services this special lady will have. Ask her. Usual fees can range from $200.00 to 8oo.00 dollars depending on where you live and custom in that area. Postpartum doulas usually charge by the hour or package. Services are traditionally contracted for a minimum of 4 hours. This lady should have CPR training and is knowledgeable about breastfeeding and early baby development. Try to get references from friends and local health care pros. Get her before the baby comes. Doulas are very special women who love to help. They love aiding families and babies. Get one for your birth. Medical Research shows that doulas do help the mom. Here is what research states:
From Birth and Breastfeeding Resources: My fee is reasonable, - I just don’t post it -I think it is not wise) I would like to get in touch with you by your 34th week, earlier if there is more than one baby a coming. I do home and hospital births in the local areas. I have a contract so that our business is above board. I do require an up front deposit and can make payment arrangements – most people pay the final bill at the postpartum visit. I will meet with you at least 1-2 times prior to birth to go over and help you with your families birth plan and then regular phone communications until the birth. I have a pager and go on call for 2 weeks prior and after the due date. I am an IBCLC- and certified herbalist, so you get professional breastfeeding help from the beginning. The center can offer private or group birth classes for the birthing couple. (class fees are separate from the doula fee)
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