Knoxville Doula

My Passion is to help women achieve the birth they desire!

I became certified as a doula in the year 2000. I quickly followed up with Childbirth Educator training, with my trainings and certifications carried out through CAPPA (Childbirth and Postpartum Professionals Association). Shortly after becoming a doula and childbirth educator, I became trained as a postpartum doula. I am reaching 250 attended births and numerous continuing education opportunities. Informed consent is my platform and I think there is no truer saying than "If you don't know your options, you don't have any." My philosophy on birth is to support families in the birth they desire and deserve. With my years of experience, we can work together to look at your options and have an empowering birth experience. In 2009, I attended an ICAN (International Cesarean Awareness Network) conference and realized that East Tennessee desperately needed a local chapter of this magnificent organization. In 2010, ICAN of Knoxville was born and I have found that this has rounded out my passion for helping women, specifically in the area of VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean). No matter where or how you plan to birth, contact me for assistance in designing an experience you will cherish.

The word "doula" comes from the ancient Greek meaning "a woman who serves" and is now used to refer to a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after birth; or who provides emotional and practical support during the postpartum period.

Studies have shown that when doulas attend birth, labors are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier and they breastfeed more easily. This information is courtesy of http://www.dona.org

Numerous clinical studies have found that a doula’s presence at birth result in: • 50% decrease in cesarean sections • 25% decrease in length of labor • 30% decrease in use of forceps • 40% decrease in use of oxcitocin • 60% decrease in use of epidurals • 30% decrease in use of pain medications (narcotics) • Improved breastfeeding • Decreased postpartum depression • Better mother-infant interaction (see www.dona.org for more info & studies)

Women have complex needs during childbirth and the weeks that follow. In addition to medical care and the love and companionship provided by their partners, women need consistent, continuous reassurance, comfort, encouragement and respect. They need individualized care based on their circumstances and preferences. Doulas are educated and experienced in childbirth and the postpartum period. We are prepared to provide physical (non-medical), emotional and informational support to women and their partners during labor and birth, as well as to families in the weeks following childbirth. We offer a loving touch, positioning and comfort measures that make childbearing women and families feel nurtured and cared for.

Journey into motherhood by staying informed about topics such as pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, postpartum, natural & green living, empowerment, & more! http://knoxvilledoula.wordpress.com/

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