birth empowerment.

Welcome to Baby Lady Doula Services!

Providing Birth Doula Services for the Greater St. Louis Area

What is a birth doula?

A doula is a woman who nurtures the expectant or new mother before, after, and especially during labor. They enhance the birth experience through information, as well as emotional and physical comfort measures. She may use massage, acupressure, counterpressure, guided imagery, relaxation techniques, or backup the father/coach with his needs. A doula can be an invaluable part of the birth team.

The doula is a unique part of the birthing team. She is hired by the birthing couple to serve the laboring woman and does not perform medical tasks or evaluations. The doula can be totally focused on what both the mother and father need. Because her loyalties are solely to the birthing woman and her partner, the mother can rest assured that her physical and emotional needs will be met throughout her labor and birth. A professional doula also promotes positive communication among all members of the birthing team including midwife, doctor, nurses, and the couple.

Studies have shown that the presence of a doula improves birth in the following ways:

50% reduction in cesarean birth
30% reduction in requests for pain medication
60% fewer requests for epidural anesthesia
25% decrease in the length of labor
Lower postpartum depression rate for mothers
Increased breast feeding success
Greater overall satisfaction from the mother about her birth

-Klaus, Kennell and Klaus, Mothering the Mother, 1993

I invite you to browse my website to discover the philosophy and services provided by Baby Lady Doula Services. Take a few moments to explore the information and resources. At any point, feel free to contact me with questions or concerns.