What is a doula?
The word "doula" comes from the ancient Greek meaning "a woman who serves" and is now used to refer to a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and educational support to the birthing parent before, during, and just after birth; or who provides emotional and practical support during the postpartum period.
Studies have shown that when doulas attend birth, labors are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier and breastfeed more easily.
Why hire a doula?
Birthing families have complex needs during childbirth and the weeks that follow. In addition to medical care from their providers and love and companionship provided by their partners and families, pregnant people benefit from consistent, continuous reassurance, comfort, encouragement and respect. They deserve individualized care based on their specific circumstances and preferences.
Members of the Olympia Doula Circle are educated and experienced in childbirth and the postpartum period. We are prepared to provide physical (non-medical), emotional and informational support to you and your partner during labor and birth, as well as in the weeks following childbirth. We offer a loving touch; positioning and comfort measures that will ensure you and your family feel nurtured and cared for.
Why an Olympia Doula Circle doula?
Since Olympia Doula Circle doulas are all independent business owners you have the benefit of personalized, one-on-one care from the doula you select, and the comfort of knowing your doula is supported by a community of other professional doulas. We learn and grow alongside each other as well as provide reliable back up for one another, should the need arise. And we value education, so all of the doulas you'll find listed are either certified, currently working toward certification, or have attended at least 25 births. You can be confident in the care you'll receive.