Julie Zamost,
M.A., C.N.C., C.D.
DONA Certified DOULA
Eugene, Oregon
(541) 434-2418
Prenatal Counseling
Labor and Birth Support
Contact Julie
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What is a doula?
Who is Julie?
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What is a doula?
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A birth doula (also known as birth assistant, birth companion, or labor-support
professional) is a woman who is trained and experienced in childbirth and
who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support
to the mother before and during labor, birth, and the immediate postpartum
period.
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A doula understands the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of
a woman in labor. She is a woman's advocate at a time when she is greatly
in need of such assistance. The doula offers protection, empathy, support,
nurturing, and guidance.
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A doula helps to support the partner so that he/she can feel relaxed and
secure in providing love and support in whatever way is need.
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Doulas specialize in non-medical skills. They do not perform clinical
tasks, diagnose medical conditions, or offer medical advice.
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Your doula cannot make decisions for you. She will help you to get
the information you need to make informed decisions, discuss your concerns
with you, and suggest options.
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Studies have shown impressive reductions in the need for pitocin, epidural
anesthesia, episiotomy, and caesarian or suction deliveries in births that
are offered labor support.
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In addition, the continuous physical and emotional support provided by
a doula can shorten labor, reduce infant complications, and positively
influence a woman's feelings about herself, her labor and her baby, all
of which lead to more successful bonding and breast feeding.
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