Doula Support By Avalon

09/16/2021

I love the idea of playing a role in a variety of birth experiences, cesareans included. There are so many ways a doula can make a positive impact during a cesarean, to start with, if permitted in the room, they can serve as a calming influence for the birthing person and possible partner. Many of the same techniques are used during a cesarean as compared to a vaginal birth--deep breathing, massage, calming music (if allowed). Prior to a cesarean (as long as it's not an emergency) pain management techniques can be used, the ambiance in the surgical room can be modified (music, picture, LED candles). This of course all depends on the team of doctors, but even having a doula to prep you before and after surgery and emotionally guide you through the process can change a cesarean from something scary to something beautiful and empowering.

Even if they can’t attend the surgical procedure, they offer support before and after.

04/05/2021

03/20/2020

I got to work with this amazing family for my second birth. Dad was so loving, involved and encouraging towards his wife, following her lead and praising her hard work. Mama was conquering each contraction, working through one at a time, while inserting her quirky sense of humor during breaks. Grandma and Grandpa were there too, providing wisdom and presence for their daughter and son in law. I just loved working with this family and feel so honored that they invited me into their most vulnerable and intimate of experiences. Their beautiful little girl was born through an emergency cesarean after her heart rate weakened. Mom and dad were understandably frightened but showed wonderful flexibility and quickly adapted to the new circumstances. Baby girl was born healthy and strong. It was truly a pleasure meeting this couple and getting to be there to welcome their angel into the world. 💜💜💜

02/27/2020

Moms and their babies

02/26/2020

Yes! 😆

02/26/2020

02/14/2020

Magic

02/14/2020

MORE IN DEPTH INFO ON WHAT I DO:

As a doula, I provide emotional and physical support before, during and after the birth of your baby/babies.

Prior to the birth I meet with you to discuss fears, expectations, practicalities and preparation (let's be honest, you can never truly prepare for parenthood!), baby care, changes in your relationship with your partner (if this person is in the picture), a birth plan, a postpartum plan, comfort measures, common birth interventions, relaxation skills, the relationship with your care provider and anything else that unfolds.

During the birth I will be by your side continuously day/night moving you into positions to help labor progress or to provide comfort, using massage as pain relief, getting you drinks/snacks, taking pictures if you wish, coordinating with your family members, calming dad/partner, ROOTING YOU ON, providing presence and space for you to experience whatever emotions arise, using breath work, mantras and whatever other coping skills we come up with together to get you through labor and the array of feelings that come with not only the birth of your baby, but the birth of your motherhood. Following this, I will stay by your side for a few hours, if you so desire, and assist you in whatever way you need.

I offer my services to mommies having cesareans, too! We will use all of the same methods but modified depending on how far into labor you are before you head to the OR. Request for me to be in the OR with you, and I will be there! I will be by your side helping you ease into the procedure using relaxation skills and together we will create a loving and harmonious atmosphere for your baby to arrive in.

Within the first week of your baby's life, I like to visit with you to discuss how you are managing and what extra support you may need...And of course, I want to see that sweet baby of yours!

My opinions on birth---DON'T MATTER. You are in charge. There is no "right" way to give birth. All different types of births can be beautiful, empowering and special. All feelings are welcome during birth, too. There

Although I have my Master's in counseling and experience in providing therapy to clients, I cannot provide therapy to my doula clients at this time. What I can do, is to integrate my counseling skills into our conversations to lend emotional support.

02/14/2020

I am now offering doula support in the Omaha area. I am excited to see what awaits👣🤰🌺