birth with joy
Hello and Welcome! Look around to learn more about what I offer as a Birth Doula.
I'm Sheila, Certified Doula (DONA) and owner of Birth With Joy. I'm here to walk along side you through your journey of growing and birthing a new human.
Kalona, Iowa is my operating base, I service the surrounding area within a one-hour radius of Kalona.
I support births both in the hospital and at home, providing that there is a certified midwife present if at home.
DOULA SERVICES
Joyful birth
Pregnancy and Birth are big undertakings that no one should go through alone.
It is my aim for you to be well supported emotionally, physically and informationally. I'm here to build in you the confidence required to give birth with joy; providing you with tools, information and personal support needed in this big undertaking.
With you, I embrace God's great design for your body to bring new life into the world.
"He will feed His flock like a shepherd;
He will gather the lambs with His arm,
And carry them in His bosom,
And gently lead those who are with young."
Benefits of a Doula
Evidence from research
-
Less likely to need forceps and vacuum.
-
Reduced use of Pitocin, fewer requests for pain meds.
-
Reduced likelihood of cesarean.
-
Better APGAR scores for baby.
-
Improved postpartum mental health.
-
Increased confidence
-
Decreased anxiety
-
more positive long-term memories for mother and partner.
-
Increased family bonding and support for partner and siblings.
Role of a Doula
-
A calm and steady presence throughout labor and delivery, providing constant support and reassurance.
-
Expertise in natural pain relief techniques.
-
Professional support in finding the best positions to facilitate a smooth labor, addressing issues related to baby malposition.
-
Assistance in communicating your birth preferences to the medical team and support in understanding medical procedures.
-
Help in creating and adhering to a birth plan tailored to your desires and needs, as well as fostering flexibility to adapt to possible plan changes.
-
Support in initial breastfeeding and addressing common breastfeeding concerns.
-
Assistance with newborn care and providing tips and information on baby's health and well being.
Our Clients Say
"Sheila’s support during my pregnancy and birth was invaluable!
I pictured a doula as delivery room support but discovered her assistance in pregnancy and postpartum was equally needed.
During pregnancy, I felt physically weak and out of shape. Her coaching me in Body Ready Method classes improved my physical resilience and enormously boosted my confidence heading into the birth.
Absolutely loved her support and would definitely hire Sheila again!"
- JEN R.
What to Expect
Prenatal Support
Four prenatal visits including:
-
Prenatal body work sessions per Body Ready Method® professional training
-
Coaching in creating a birth plan
-
Emotional support and addressing concerns
-
Unlimited phone, text support
Labor and Birth Support
-
On call availability from 37 weeks onward for active labor support
-
Physical support with comfort measures such as massage, positioning, and breathing techniques
-
Advocacy for our birth preferences
-
Creating a positive birth environment
-
Assistance with initial breastfeeding
-
Support during the immediate postpartum period in the birth location
Postpartum Support
-
One postpartum visit to check in on recovery
-
Assistance with breastfeeding, newborn care and emotional adjustment.
-
Referrals to additional resources or professionals if needed
-
Continued availability for phone, text and email support up to 2 weeks postpartum
