Mother's Advocate Doula Services
Bear one another's
burdens, and so fulfill
the law of Christ.
Galatians 6:2
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"Doula" (pronounced doo-lah) is a Greek word meaning "a woman who helps other women".
Today it is commonly used to signify a professional woman experienced in childbirth who
provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support during pregnancy,
labor and just after childbirth. Using non-medical advice and techniques, a doula supports
the birthing mother and her partner throughout labor and delivery to help her have a more
satisfying birthing experience. Doulas work alongside midwives, physicians, nurses, and
fathers, and play an exceptionally large role in improving both the physical and emotional
journeys of mothers and newborns.
A Birth Doula...
Offers physical comfort by...
 | | using a variety of massage techniques
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| | reminding and helping mothers with their chosen relaxation techniques
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| | prompting position changes for comfort and progress of labor
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| | applying heat, ice or pressure as desired
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Offers emotional support by...
| | believing in and strengthening a woman's belief in her ability to birth her baby
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| | encouraging a laboring mother if she becomes disheartened
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| | acknowledging feelings. They are real and they are valid.
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| | Supporting a mother's choice of medication. The presence of a doula helps some |
| | women to avoid pain medications, and helps others postpone the need until late in
labor; however, each woman will experience the powers of labor differently and some
may choose or need the benefits of medication.
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Informs her clients by...
| | providing accurate research-backed information
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| | educating parents about risks & benefits of procedures that they may encounter
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| | helping mothers formulate ways to convey their wishes to care providers.
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Assists the family by...
| | allowing the laboring mother's partner to step out for food
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| | running for necessities like towels, pillows, blankets, or beverages
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| | taking photographs of the event
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| | giving understanding and meaning to medical terminology when needed
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Helps her client take ownership of her birth experience by...
| | supporting her client's goals and wishes
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| | uncovering fears and expectations of the birth experience
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| | conveying all options and choices without bias
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| | assisting with the writing and implementation of a birth plan |
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"Mary had a very calming presence
and did everything she could to make
me comfortable. She brought in a
birthing ball, which was very
helpful...The hip massage worked
great for my back labor!"
~ Wendy ~ Kaukauna, WI
Interesting links
Notice: the photos on this site are used by me with permission from my clients,
please out of respect, do not copy or reproduce any of these photos. Thank You. Mary E. Smits
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Disclaimer
The information contained on this website is of a general nature and is
designed for educational purposes only. The information is not meant to
replace the recommendations or advice of your midwife or doctor.
Please consult your midwife or doctor regarding your health care.
My Birth Services Also Include:
| | 2-3 prenatal visits to bond as a team, share information, explore |
| | relaxation styles, discuss special wishes and write a birth plan
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| | telephone support to answer questions and address concerns.
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| | early labor support in the comfort of your home, if desired
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| | compassionate labor assistance in the hospital or your home (for |
| | planned home births) plus 1-2 hours of support following your
baby’s debut
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| | At least one in-home postpartum visit to talk about the birth, |
| | address issues of concern, share photos, etc.
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| | Other services as the need arises |
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I deem every woman's birth experience invaluable; therefore I feel services should be obtainable by all
women desiring a doula's support. If you are concerned about affording my services, adjustments are
available to lower income families based on a sliding scale.
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Ecstatic Birth: The Hormonal Blueprint of Labor
Mary E. Smits, CD (CBI)
I am proud to be a graduate of:
Great gifts
for new
Dads!
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