Sharon CarterJulie DenlingerAmy Fajerson GatesStephanie NoblesPamala PhelpsViolet StephensXylina WeaverCara WrightTerri Young
Are you considering the services of a doula for your pregnancy, birth or postpartum recovery? Get to know Spokane’s local doulas—listed on the left side of this page—and read on to find out what a doula can do for you.
A doula is a woman experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to mothers before, during and just after childbirth. She understands the physiology of birth and the needs of a laboring woman. She serves as a friend, mentor and helper to the mother as well as a support to her partner and/or family.
During pregnancy—for several months leading up to the birth—a doula provides information and education to expectant families. She listens to the mother’s desires, helping her have a comfortable and nourishing pregnancy, as well as assisting in the creation of a birth plan.
As labor and birth are imminent, the doula employs comfort measures and relaxation techniques that allow a woman to have a natural, unmedicated birth. Or, if the mother chooses to or needs to labor with the help of medications, these methods can also help facilitate labor and birth.
Following birth, a doula provides breastfeeding and newborn care support. A doula will usually visit the family after the birth with one or two postpartum visits to ensure baby, mother and the rest of the family are successfully acclimating to their new roles at home.
Whether she is a new mother or has had many experiences in childbirth, a mother can always benefit from the care, love, support, and encouragement that comes from the loving heart of a doula.
Read the Bloom Blog article titled “Hiring a Doula: A Husband’s Perspective” if you or your spouse have any doubts about the benefits of hiring a professional birth assistant.
International Birth & Wellness Project
DONA International
PALS Doulas
Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association
