Nurturing the Childbearing Family

What is a Doula?

Doula is a Greek word and refers to a woman experienced in childbirth that provides physical, emotional, and informational support to the mother before, during, and just after childbirth.
Giving birth is much more than a medical procedure. It is an emotional as well as a physical journey, and having doula with you can help ease the transition from pregnancy into parenthood. Both parents benefit from the nurturing care a doula provides.

What is the difference between a Certified Doula and an Apprentice Doula?

A Certified Doula has had specialized training and received her certification from a national organization for labor support providers. DONA (Doulas of North America) is one example of such an organization. (www.dona.com)

An Apprentice Doula has taken the required training and needs to attend three (3) births prior to certification.

All Doulas follow the Code of Ethics/Standards of Practice set forth by DONA and Kettering Memorial Hospital. Precious Beginnings Doulas strive to provide the highest quality support to birthing women and their families.

Who relies on a Doula?

Childbearing women and couples, doctors and labor and delivery nurses appreciate the resources, techniques, knowledge and continuous caring support a Doula provides. For women with or without partners, the Doula may be a significant source of focused, continuous emotional support throughout the mother's labor.

Will I meet the Doula before I begin the labor?

Doulas meet with clients for a prenatal consultation and then stay in touch with the family by phone. The Doula meets the laboring mother at the hospital to provide continuous labor support and stays through the delivery of the baby. Prior to discharge, the Doula will return to the hospital to visit with the new family and bring the completed Birth Story.

What can I expect from my Doula?

A Birth Doula…

• Recognizes childbirth as a key life experience that a mother will remember forever.
• Understands the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of women in labor.
• Assists the woman and her partner in preparing for and carrying out their plans for the birth.
• Stays by the side of the laboring woman and her family throughout the entire labor and delivery process.
• Provides emotional support and physical comfort pleasures.

What are the fees for Doula services?

The cost of a Precious Beginnings Certified Doula is $350.00. We accept cash, check, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express). The Apprentice Doula is free of charge, and is based on availability.
To receive the services of a Doula, contact the Precious Beginnings Childbirth Education Office at (937) 395-8600. The Doula Program Coordinator will talk with you and match your needs and desires with the services and talents of one of our Doulas on staff.