Inner Strength Doula Services

A Guide For The Journey to Motherhood

It would be convenient if babies arrived with an instruction manual but since all birth experiences are different, this is not a possibility. Fortunately, there are people like Meg Smith who can help. Meg is a DONA International certified doula who provides physical, emotional and informational support during pregnancy, labor and immediately after birth. The term "doula" comes from the Greek word meaning "a woman who serves."

After giving birth to two children, Meg witnessed the birth of her nephew about two years ago. "Watching a birth is amazing," she says. "A light bulb went off in my head and I knew this is what I wanted to do. I didn't want to go the medical route though. I have a background in social work so support seemed the best way for me." She completed doula training and started assisting mothers about a year ago.

Meg said some women contact her seven months in advance while others wait until two weeks before the due date. "As long as they are not in labor, it is not too late," she says. Before the birth, Meg is ready to answer questions and offer assurance for her clients. "They can call me anytime and ask about anything. We almost become like girlfriends," says Meg. She is present during labor to offer encouragement and stays after the baby is born to help with breastfeeding or other concerns.

"I can be more objective than a family member," she points out. "A husband often is so sympathetic that it is hard for him to help. I know the stages of labor and tell the mom that she can get through it." Meg notes that research has shown that labors are shorter and have fewer complications when doulas are present. She has some clients who want natural childbirth and others who ask for an epidural. "I keep notes about the birth and provide the mom with a birth story after it is over. It is a keepsake for them or for the baby book."

Most of Meg's clients are educated women who appreciate the support and information from a doula. She charges a flat fee for the full package of her services. For more information, visit www.innerstrengthdoula.org. -Judy Buchenot

This article appeared in the January 2010 issue of the Naperville Glancer

Here is the link:

http://www.glancermagazine.com/portraits_naperville.html