Meet the Doula
Hello! My name is Shelby, and I am so glad to meet you. My journey towards becoming a doula was inspired by my own transformative experience when I gave birth to my son in 2023. This life-changing event ignited a deep desire within me to support and empower other women on their own unique journeys to motherhood.
My primary goal as a doula is to help women have meaningful and positive birth and postpartum experiences. I firmly believe in the inherent strength and beauty of women, and I am committed to harnessing and nurturing that strength throughout the entire birthing process. From providing emotional support to ensuring physical comfort, I am dedicated to creating a safe and empowering environment for mothers and their families.
In my personal life, I am blessed with a loving family. I am happily married, and together we have a wonderful son named Lucas.
I am excited and honored to walk alongside you on your incredible journey into motherhood. Together, let us create memories, provide support, and celebrate the miracle of birth.
What is a Doula?
A doula is a non-medical professional who provides emotional, physical, and informational support to individuals and families during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Birth doulas offer continuous support during labor, helping clients navigate the process, providing comfort measures, advocating for their preferences, and offering reassurance. Postpartum doulas, on the other hand, assist families in the weeks following childbirth, offering practical help with newborn care, assisting with breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, providing emotional support, and helping parents adjust to their new roles. Both birth and postpartum doulas strive to create a nurturing and empowering environment for mothers and families as they embark on their parenting journey.
What are the Benefits?
1. Decreases the likelihood of a cesarean section by 39%.
2. 25% shorter labor duration, on average.
3. A decrease of up to 31% in the use of pain medications.
4. Women who received doula support reported higher satisfaction levels with their birth experience, with 92% of participants stating that they would choose a doula for future births.
5. According to a survey conducted by DONA International, families who utilized doula care reported decreased rates of postpartum depression and anxiety, with 85% of respondents reporting improved emotional well-being.
6. 31% reduction in Pitocin usage.
7. 27% increase in breastfeeding initiation rates compared to those without doula support.
8. Infants who received doula-assisted care had a 37% lower risk of experiencing neonatal complications, such as low birth weight and admission to the intensive care unit.
9. A 34% decrease in the rates of preterm births.
10. The presence of a doula during childbirth can enhance maternal-infant bonding, leading to increased rates of positive maternal behaviors and interactions with the newborn.
My Philosophy
As a doula, my journey began with a profound desire to help women rediscover their innate strength and embrace the beauty of birth. Witnessing the transformative power of childbirth, I firmly believe that every woman deserves to feel empowered and find joy in their postpartum journey. With a deep-rooted conviction, I have dedicated myself to guiding women on a path of self-discovery, unleashing their strength, and nurturing their minds, bodies, and souls throughout this incredible journey.
Reconnecting with our Inner Power
Birth is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring experiences for a woman. It is a profound moment of connection to our bodies, our babies, and the inherent strength and resilience we possess. Unfortunately, societal conditioning and the portrayal of birth in media often overshadow the true magnificence of this natural process. Many women enter the birthing room feeling fearful, disempowered, and disconnected from their inner power.
The Power of Empowerment
My journey as a doula is fueled by a desire to change this narrative. I want to reframe the conversation surrounding birth, highlighting its innate beauty and transformative potential. By nurturing a safe and supportive environment, I aim to empower women to trust in their bodies, their intuition, and the birth process itself.
Through ongoing education, emotional support, and practical guidance, I endeavor to equip women with the knowledge and tools they need to advocate for themselves and make informed decisions, thus reclaiming their power during their birthing experience. By fostering a positive and empowering environment, I strive to facilitate a shift in mindset, helping women recognize the strength, resilience, and beauty they possess within.
Postpartum Love and Nurture
Beyond embracing the beauty of birth, my dedication extends into the postpartum period. This sacred time, often undervalued in our fast-paced society, is crucial for a woman's physical and emotional healing, as well as creating a solid foundation for mother and baby bonding.
As a doula, my role is to offer unwavering support, compassion, and guidance during this vulnerable phase. From providing evidence-based information on newborn care and breastfeeding to actively listening to a mother's concerns and fears, I strive to create a nurturing space where women can feel seen, heard, and validated. By fostering an environment of love and encouragement, I aim to strengthen a woman's self-confidence, allowing her to fully embrace the joy and challenges that come with motherhood.
Conclusion
In a world that often fails to acknowledge the beauty and power of birth, I stand as a passionate advocate, ready to empower women and reshape the conversation surrounding childbirth. By encouraging trust in the birthing process, providing unwavering support, and nurturing women throughout their postpartum journey, I strive to help women rediscover their inner strength and forge a deep connection with their babies.
It is my firm belief that when women feel empowered, loved, and supported during their birth experiences, they can tap into a wellspring of courage and resilience. Together, let us embrace the beauty of birth, foster empowerment, and celebrate the magnificent journey of motherhood.Share your unique story with us. We believe in the power of personalization and taking a holistic approach to birth and postpartum care. Let us support you and your growing family every step of the way.