Doula

“A doula is a professional trained in childbirth who provides emotional, physical, and educational support to a mother who is expecting, is experiencing labor, or has recently given birth. The doula’s purpose is to help women have a safe, memorable, and empowering birthing experience.” –American Pregnancy Association

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The midwives at KC Homebirth are proud to provide one of the region’s first  options for monititrice care during pregnancy, labor and birth. Prenatally we provide the same kind of guidance as a doula but with a higher level of educational background. We are able to monitor for basic safety at home while providing the same emotional and physical support a doula would. When you are ready to transition to the birth center or hospital we will stay with you as your doula. A monitrice is not your medical provider and does not provide prenatal care or act as your birth attendant. This option is especially useful for families navigating more complicated decision making situations like VBAC, twins, and families facing a loss. Having had a wide range of experiences as mothers and midwives paired with a passion for learning allows us to offer the most advanced labor support available.

During Pregnancy

During pregnancy we will provide one to two prenatal visits in the office to help you prepare your birth plan and  learn what is important to you for labor and birth. This will be different for every family. The time spent building relationships and really focusing on individual needs is where we find the roadmap to your best birth. We also offer (and encourage you to take) an Informed Childbirth class, because information empowers you to be an active participant in the decision making process for your care.

During Labor

During labor we provide emotional and physical support to  your  family. We are able to monitor your baby as needed, monitor your vitals, and provide vaginal exams if you like. These services are above the educational level of a doula and are available to low-risk mothers and babies. We will agree prenatally while making your birth plan to the times and situations where this kind of care is appropriate and safe.

After Birth

After birth we stay for one to two hours postpartum to help establish breastfeeding. Monitrice services also include a postpartum visit in the office within a few weeks after birth. Our network of connections built through years of hard work help us guide you to the best support for you.

 

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