Doulas

A Beginnings Birth Center approved doula (designated on the above slides) from our community is required for all first-time parents, as well as all first-time VBAC parents and those whose last birth was with an epidural. Sometimes a doula is required if deemed necessary by your midwives.

We at the birth center gain nothing financially from you hiring a doula or taking classes. We have the most experience with the doulas on this list, and we know for a fact the doulas on this list will consistently meet all the expectations listed below. We strive for excellence in our care, and we expect the same from anyone hired by our clients.

Here is what you can expect from a certified, experienced doula:

• You can expect a formal written agreement (contract) with your Doula for services including qualified backup if she is not available.
• Your Doula will be emotionally and physically present with you throughout your birth, initially by phone/text and then in person at your home prior to leaving for the birth center.
• Your Doula will attend your labor and birth – through labor and birth and for a mutually agreed upon period of time after the birth.
• Your Doula will continue to stay with you through the birth whether a location/plan change is needed or not.
• Your Doula will be willing to be directly in contact with your midwife team after her arrival for labor support at your home.
• Your Doula will offer expertise and suggestions for things like labor positions, comfort measures, staying hydrated and fed, when to leave for the birth center, and physically provide support like counter pressure and hip squeezes as needed/desired.