Jennifer Linstad - Birth Doula
Because how we birth means everything.
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Speak tenderly to them. Let there be kindness in your face, in your eyes, in your smile, in the warmth of our greeting. Always have a cheerful smile. Don't only give your care, but give your heart as well.

~ Mother Teresa




What is a doula anyway?

 You've heard the word - what does it mean?

A doula can be summed up as a professional labor support person. We meet with you prenatally to help you prepare for your labor, and to allow us to get to know you and you to get to know us. We are there for you throughout your labor and help you through the initial postpartum period. We are there for you physically, emotionally, and intellectually.

How doulas can effect your birth experience
 
Whether you are at home, in a freestanding birth center or in a hospital, a doula can provide an invaluable source of comfort, encouragement, and assistance.


According to DONA a doula's presence can:
  • Result in a shorter, less complicated labor
  • Reduce negative feelings about a family's birth experience
  • Reduce the need or desire for medications to augment labor or for pain management
  • Reduce the the occurrence of cesarean birth
  • Help the mother feel more secure and cared for
  • Help families have more success with breastfeeding
  • Lead to a mother's increased sense of self-confidence
To sum it up - we are there to protect your wishes and desires and to advocate and educate so that you will be feel empowered to make informed decisions in your birth.

A doula is there with you for constant support and vigil. While nurses and doctors and even sometimes midwives provide care intermittently, your doula is there with you supporting, encouraging and observing continuously.

I'm available!

 

I'm a DONA Certified doula ready and I'd love to help you through your birth!  Please contact me and we can start seeing if I am a good fit for your family.
 

I would love to help with any birth including:
 
Homebirth
Hospital Birth
Birth Center Birth
Unassisted Homebirth
VBAC
HBAC
Same-sex partners
Adoption/relinquishment
Teens
Expected stillbirth
Special needs families
Other children in attendance
Cesarean
High risk
Multiples
Short notice
 
Of course there are many other unique birth situations that I would be honored to be in attendance for.
 

   Jennifer Linstad CD(DONA)  Kent, Washington      206-588-JENN                     doulajenn@live.com