REBECCA GAY CBE, CLC, DOULA
Empowering Birthing Families Since 2003 In Hospitals, Birth Centers, And Homes
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(404)924-9408
Everything You Want To Know About Doulas And More...........
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Q: What are the benefits of having a doula?
According to the last published clinical trial (Hodnett and colleagues 2004) when a trained doula attends a birth, the laboring woman is: *26% less likely to give birth by cesarean section * 41% less likely to give birth with vacuum extraction or forceps * 28% less likely to use any pain medications and * 33% less likely to be dissatisfied with or negatively rate their birth experience
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Q: Can my doula fee be covered by my insurance?
Maybe! I can provide you with my National Provider Identifier number. You can then use this number when filing for reimbursement from your insurance provider. Some insurance providers reimburse fully or partially. Some insurance companies who have either fully or partially reimbursed for Doula fees are: Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana Employers Health, Travelers, United Health Care, and United Health POS
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Q: Aren't doulas only for women who want to go 'all natural?'
No. I am there to support your wishes, whatever they may be. There are many options surrounding labor, birth and newborn care procedures. I will help you understand all of your options so you can decide what you are most comfortable with.
Q: Does a doula attend my birth if I have a cesarean section?
Yes. Whether scheduled or not, I will be by your side throughout the process. Depending on the hospital, I can join your partner in the O.R. Depending on hospital protocols; I will be there for you in recovery to assist with breastfeeding and to attend to your other needs.
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Q: Does a doula replace my birth partner?
NO! I do NOT take the place of the partner or other family members. Sometimes the partner and family become overwhelmed by the birth process. They may feel incompetent and not know what to do to help the mother. I give the partner and family the tools by which to be an active participant in the birth process and can be as hands on or as hands off as the expecting parents wish me to be. The tools I offer often solidify and deepen the already beautiful bond between partners and family and have the ability to improve their relationship for the better.
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Q: How does a doula work with hospital staff?
Primary care providers are responsible for the medical health needs of you and your baby. I DO NOT perform any medical or clinical procedures. I will help you understand the medical procedures being presented, but will not make decisions for you.
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Q: Does a doula advocate for me?
During pregnancy and throughout labor I will provide you with information, my vast knowledge, and experience. I do not speak for you, but I help you to speak for yourself.
Q: Do doulas work exclusively with midwives?
No. Because I am hired privately by the expecting family; I work for the family, regardless of your care provider. I work well with doctors, midwives, nurses, at home, in birth centers, or in a hospital setting.
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