Monitrice / Doula

Doula
A doula is a support person with special training in pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period. A doula is on call for you 24/7 by phone. Doulas can help you understand your choices, help you to find answers to your questions, and facilitate patient informed decision making. Prenatally doulas offer information related to pregnancy, birth preparation, and birth preferences. Throughout labor doulas provide continuous physical and emotional support. Doulas are knowledgeable about hospital protocols, procedures, and interventions, as well as possible risks and benefits. Doulas are experts in comfort measures and relaxation techniques to help cope with labor. A doula is an invaluable resource for those seeking a non-medicated birth. A doula encourages partner participation and is there to support you and your family. In the postpartum period a doula offers breastfeeding support and is available to debrief your birth experience. Doula services include 1-2 prenatal visits, 24/7 availability, continuous labor and birth support, and 1-2 postpartum visits with the option for more frequent appointments if needed. Please visit the contact page if you would like sliding scale fee information, have a question, or would like to schedule a consultation (no charge). There is no “right” time in pregnancy to find a doula, though availability is first come first serve and may be limited.

Monitrice
A monitrice offers a blend of midwifery care and doula support for those who are planning a hospital birth and desire greater involvement in appointments, labor, and/or birth. Care received by a monitrice may include prenatal and postpartum appointments as well as assessments of mom and baby at the onset of labor.  This care is supplemental to that of your primary maternity care provider. A monitrice is trained and licensed to assess vital signs, monitor fetal heart tones and fetal position, and check cervical progress. For those who wish to labor at home before going to the hospital or who must travel a distance to get to a hospital, a monitrice provides information on labor progress which aids in determining when to go to the hospital or if active labor has begun. A monitrice then accompanies you to the hospital. Once at the hospital, a monitrice no longer offers medical assessments and serves the role of a doula by providing labor support, comfort measures, and continuity. After birth, a monitrice provides assistance with breastfeeding, newborn care, and may administer standard newborn screenings once you’ve arrived home. Monitrice services include 2-4 prenatal visits, 24-7 on call availability, labor and birth support, and 2-3 postpartum visits for mom and baby. Please visit the contact page if you would like sliding scale fee information, have a question, or would like to schedule a consultation (no charge). Availability is first come first serve and may be limited.