Serving the Fredericksburg, Virginia area   As of November 25, 2010, I am currently unable to accept clients, but during this time I invite you to explore the rest of my website for information. Please be sure to visit the "Doulas" section under my "Local Resources" tab for a complete list of area doulas who might be a good match for you. Attending our monhly Childbirth Circle is a great way to meet many doulas as well!   Birth doulas are trained assistants who provide comfort measures, emotional support, and a wealth of knowledge during childbirth. Women who use doulas are less likely to request pain medication, have a decreased need for pitocin, have fewer instrumental deliveries, and have fewer cesarean sections. Labors are often shorter and have less complications. Afterward women express greater satisfaction with their birth experience, and can have increased self-confidence. They also have an enhanced early bond and better breastfeeding experiences with their baby, and suffer less from postpartum depression.1,2   Doula support is constant, compassionate, skilled, and informative. Whether you're interested in natural or medicated childbirth, a doula can work with you to meet your personal goals as you welcome your child into the world!   I am a DONA-certified birth doula. DONA, the world's premier doula organization, has set forth the highest standards for its doulas and provided me with exceptional education and professional instruction. To read more about my qualifications visit dona.org.