Mother's Advocate Doula Services of Kaukauna, Appleton, Fox Cities

Mother's Advocate Doula Services

Bear one another's
burdens, and so fulfill
the law of Christ.
Galatians 6:2

What is a doula?

"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
		reminding and helping mothers with their chosen relaxation techniques
		prompting position changes for comfort and progress of labor
		applying heat, ice or pressure as desired

Offers emotional support by...

		believing in and strengthening a woman's belief in her ability to birth her baby
		encouraging a laboring mother if she becomes disheartened
		acknowledging feelings. They are real and they are valid.
		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.

Informs her clients by...

		providing accurate research-backed information
		educating parents about risks & benefits of procedures that they may encounter
		helping mothers formulate ways to convey their wishes to care providers.

Assists the family by...

		allowing the laboring mother's partner to step out for food
		running for necessities like towels, pillows, blankets, or beverages
		taking photographs of the event
		giving understanding and meaning to medical terminology when needed

Helps her client take ownership of her birth experience by...

		supporting her client's goals and wishes
		uncovering fears and expectations of the birth experience
		conveying all options and choices without bias
		assisting with the writing and implementation of a birth plan

Home

"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

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

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.

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.

Mary E. Smits, CD, CBE, (CBI)
Certified Doula and Childbirth Educator, Childbirth International