A doula is a birth professional who is an expert in childbirth and infant care.
Doulas recognize the significance of your birth experience and how it can shape you as a parent and partner for years to come.
A doula can help you have a safe, memorable, and empowering birth and postpartum.
COVID: Currently all the hospitals we serve are allowing birth doula support. However, if cases rise and hospitals will not allow your doula to be present we will switch to our virtual support option. Ask us how we can support you with the same high standards of care and compassion through our virtual support!
Most doula-client relationships begin a few months before the baby is due, although Lancaster Doulas is unique in that we are able to support you fully even if you hire us in labor.
During your pregnancy your team of two doulas will develop a relationship in which you are free to ask questions, express fears and concerns, and take an active role in creating a birth preference list.
Your doulas are available by phone from the moment you hire Lancaster Doulas to answer questions or address any concerns that might arise during the course of your pregnancy.
“With the help of Lancaster Doulas we finally had the birth we wanted. After the frustrating birth of our first we were looking for something better. Boy did we find it. I cannot recommend Holly and her team enough!” – Elizabeth M.
Your doulas do not provide medical care. However, they are knowledgeable in many medical aspects of labor and delivery and each hospitals specific rules and regulations. As such, your doulas can help you gain a better understanding of the procedures and possible complications in late pregnancy or delivery.
Your doulas have the ability to provide comfort with pain-relief techniques including breathing techniques, relaxation techniques, massage, and laboring positions.
Your doulas will not take the place of your partner. They will encourage participation from your partner and offer them reassurance while reminding them of the importance of self care.
I can’t thank the two of you enough for your support during my VBAC journey. Finding peace with my C-Section was a huge relief and allowed me to let go of my fears and disappointment to have a healing birth experience. We couldn’t have done it without you !! – Sara and Matt
Your doula is not your advocate, but rather will help you create an amazing team of care providers who will respect your birth desires and honor your goals to have a positive and safe birth, whether un-medicated or cesarean.
After the birth, your doula will spend time encouraging bonding between the new baby and other family members. This could take the form of breastfeeding support, skin to skin with family member’s, or even helping with your baby’s first bath.
We accept inquires during any stage: fertility, conception, pregnancy, labor and postpartum. It is NEVER too early or too late explore a better birth experience. Contact Lancaster Doulas now to get started, our calendar fills up fast!
For your safety, we are the ONLY doula agency to ensure that all of our doulas are current on vaccinations.
Birth support is ALSO valuable for families who experience loss, bed rest during pregnancy, and surrogacy.