Universal Mother Birth Services

CONGRATULATIONS!

Whether you are newly pregnant, or are close to your due date, I am glad you are taking the steps to help you make informed decisions on the birth of your child. I believe very strongly that a woman's birth affects her self-perception in a very intense way. After a positive birthing experience, the mother has higher self-esteem, bonds more with her baby, and has a closer relationship with her partner. Even the time she spends nursing is affected by how she feels about her birthing experience.

"Currently Servicing Western MA"

What is A Doula?

Doula is a Greek word for “woman’s servant.”

Birth Doulas (aka Labor Support Doulas)

A birth doula is a supportive companion professionally trained to provide physical and emotional support during labor and birth.

A doula provides continuous support, beginning during early or active labor, through birth, and for approximately 2 hours following the birth. The doula offers help and advice on comfort measures such as breathing, relaxation, movement, positioning, and massage.  She also assists families with gathering information about the course of labor and their options. Her most critical role is providing continuous emotional reassurance and comfort.

Doulas attend home births and hospital births; medicated births and unmedicated births, with women whose care is being overseen by doctors or midwives. Doulas may be the only support person for the mother, or may be part of a labor support team including mom’s partner, friend(s), and/or family members.  Doulas specialize in non-medical skills, and do not perform clinical tasks, or diagnose medical conditions.

Doulas do not make decisions for their clients. Their goal is to provide the support and information needed to help the birthing mother have a safe and satisfying birth as the mother defines it.

Postpartum Doulas

There are also postpartum doulas, who provide support after the baby is born. They have knowledge about postpartum recovery, breastfeeding, and newborn care. Their services vary depending on your needs, and might involve anything from a one-time visit for information and advice, to providing overnight care every night for a month. The rest of the information on this site is about birth doulas.