Doulas
Professional doulas are trained to support women in labour, and many also offer continuity of care with antenatal and postnatal support – the relationship between a woman and her doula can be invaluable during this time of great personal transition. As well as providing reassurance and practical help to birthing women, Doulas can also provide support for other birth partners (father, spouse, close friend or relative, for instance) and facilitate communication with midwives and medical staff where appropriate. Doulas work alongside other birth attendants; they do not replace them.
Research shows that the continuous emotional and physical support provided by Doulas can significantly shorten labour and decrease the need for medical pain relief, interventions and cesarean birth. The presence of a Doula can also help minimize or prevent the risk of postpartum depression.
Bristol
Sarah Lambert. Offering antenatal, birth and postnatal support. Areas of Bristol covered: Westbury Park, Whiteladies, Clifton, Cliftonwood, Hotwells, Kingsdown, Redland, Cotham, Bishopston, Montpelier, St. Werburghs, Greenbank, Fishponds, Totterdown, Windmill Hill, Southville, Bedminster. 0117 939 0724 or 07851 739 334.
Laura Sarton. Offering postnatal support – breastfeeding, emotional and practical support, including cooking
and cleaning. Areas of Bristol covered: Hotwells, Cliftonwood, Southville, Bedminster, Totterdown, Windmill Hill.
0117 966 4676 or 07762 918888.
Catherine Waters. Offering antenatal, birth and postnatal support. Areas of Bristol covered: Bishopston, Clifton, Cliftonwood, Cotham, Greenbank, Hotwells, Kingsdown, Montpelier, Redland, St. Werburghs, Stoke Bishop, Totterdown, Westbury Park, Whiteladies, Windmill Hill, Southville. 07816 506 374 or catherinewaters@blueyonder.co.uk
More details of Relaxed Birth and Parenting Doulas coming soon.