BIRTH

"Evidence suggests that, in addition to regular nursing care, continuous one-to-one emotional support is associated with improved outcomes for women in labor." - American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists


”Of all the ways birth outcomes could be improved, continuous labor support seems like one of the most important and basic needs for birthing people. Providing labor support to birthing people is both risk-free and highly effective. Evidence shows that continuous support can decrease the risk of Cesarean, the use of medications for pain relief, and the risk of a low five-minute Apgar score. Labor support also increases satisfaction and the chance of spontaneous vaginal birth. Continuous support may also shorten labor and decrease the use of Pitocin. Although continuous support can also be offered by birth partners, midwives, nurses, or even some physicians, research has shown that with some outcomes, doulas have a stronger effect than other types of support persons. As such, doulas should be viewed by both parents and providers as valuable, evidence-based members of the birth care team.” Evidenced Based Birth

Doulas offer nonjudgemental support and guidance, as you prepare for your upcoming birth. It can be challenging to navigate the pregnancy and birth journey while adjusting to the many changes you may be experiencing. I will assist you by holding space for possibilities, clarifying your vision for your birth, and accessing the care/support you seek.

AS A BIRTH DOULA, I AIM TO PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING SERVICES, UPON REQUEST AND AS TIME PERMITS:

  • Prenatal meetings to get to know each other and discuss how we can best work together.

  • Birth preferences consultation.

  • Refresher of childbirth education and/or HypnoBirthing techniques.

  • Physical, emotional, and informational support during your pregnancy and birthing process.

  • Assistance in making informed decisions throughout the labor.

  • Postpartum support immediately following the birth.

  • Documentation of birth.

  • Postpartum visit to close out and share your birth story.

    For more information, please set up a 30-minute virtual consultation with me.

POSTPARTUM

The 4th Trimester can be a time of big adjustments and many unknowns. Providing newborn care while recuperating from birth can present unique challenges, among many rewards and deeply satisfying growth. I am trained to provide support during this period of transition so that you can fully enjoy bonding with your new baby and receive nurturing care for your postpartum recovery. I offer both daytime and overnight support with highly customizable packages to suit your specific needs.

AS A POSTPARTUM DOULA, I AIM TO PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING SERVICES, UPON REQUEST AND AS TIME PERMITS:

 
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Christine, DJ and Addie

Bilen was our doula for labor & delivery of our daughter as well as during the postpartum period. We are so happy with the decision to have Bilen join us during this pivotal time. Her wisdom and even-keeled presence was invaluable. She made it clear her role was not to replace the labor partner but to be a supportive figure to both of us. She also gave us the knowledge to feel empowered to advocate for ourselves and our birth plan when laboring in a hospital setting. During the postpartum period, Bilen was also available outside of our scheduled sessions by phone and text. Having that extra support gave us the reassurance we needed as we came across new challenges. We highly recommend those looking for doula support during pregnancy and postpartum to work with Bilen.

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Mollie, Rob and Lilly

Bilen was incredibly knowledgeable about childbirth but also empathetic and understanding of us and the things that made our pregnancy and birth experience unique. We felt lucky to have her as a source of information and support, and she was invaluable in helping us navigate the many, many decisions and twists and turns throughout the entire process. We can't recommend her more highly.