Why Doula?

Holistic Care for Pregnancy, Birth & Postpartum

The Nurtured Center in San Antonio — Doulas, Childbirth Educators & Lactation Support

The Childbirth Educators, Birth & Postpartum Doulas and Lactation Consultants of The Nurtured Center in San Antonio support and encourage new families to become successful and happy in their new roles.  These new families truly are the center of our world. Our services nurture mother, baby and the whole family.

In our work as Childbirth Educators, Birth & Postpartum Doulas and Breastfeeding Educators we strive to empower new parents so they recognize the inherent parenting skills they have and learn to trust themselves and those natural instincts.  We provide support while being respectful — drawing on our knowledge and experience to work with you to achieve the birth and postpartum experience you are looking for.  We are currently serving families in San Antonio, Texas and the surrounding areas.

Modern Childbirth

Our modern society tends to over-complicate all aspects of our lives.  Pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period are very much areas that have become overcomplicated.  Our culture relies heavily on technology and procedures and forgets that a human body is actually doing all of the work that is involved in the process.  Technology and medical procedures definitely have their place and can be used when necessary however in a normal healthy labor and delivery very little intervention is needed.  The body knows what it is doing if you let it.

What is a Doula?

The term “Doula” is from a Greek word meaning woman’s servant.  To apply that to modern day uses, a Doula is a supportive companion who provides continuous care for the laboring woman and partner and assists them in fully experiencing their birth by offering physical and emotional support and/or guides and assists them after the birth.  The Doula is trained in the natural process of birth and postpartum care. She respects the body and assists the mother in allowing her body to open up and do the hard work of birthing her baby as well as following her natural instincts as a new parent.  The Doula can make suggestions for labor progression, assist with relaxation techniques and positioning, and provide encouragement.  After your new baby joins your family, she can aid you in making a smooth transition to your new role. The support of a Doula can contribute to the well-being of the mother, baby and the entire family.

Why Use A Doula?

Research studies show that the presence of a Doula can lead to a:

• 60% decrease in the use of epidurals
• 50% decrease in the rate of cesarean sections
• 40% decrease in the use of pitocin
• 30% decrease in the use of pain medications during labor
• 30% decrease in the use of forceps for delivery

In addition the presence of a Doula may lead to:

• Improved breastfeeding rates.
• A decrease in Postpartum depression
• Greater maternal satisfaction
• Better mother-infant interactions