Debra Woods
Birth & Postpartum Doula
Vancouver, B.C.
Since 1989 providing doula care to childbearing families.
BIRTH DOULA SERVICES
My birth doula care is centered in these guiding principles:
- Birth is treated as a normal, healthy part of a woman's life.
- My passion is to empower pregnant women & their families through education & supportive, sensitive and respectful care.
- I advocate for women's autonomy, assisting them to make informed decisions, give informed consent/refusal, supported by evidence based research.
- I believe in women's right to choose how they want to give birth, having access to the full range of care options.
- I believe in 'first, do no harm': avoiding routine tests, procedures, drugs and restrictions.
- I also recognize that a complication can sometimes develop. In those circumstances the use of powerful medical technologies can be lifesaving.
Well documented research has shown the numerous benefits of having continuous emotional and physical support from a birth doula. Regardless of how you envision your birth, doula care is highly recommended. As Dr. John H. Kennell stated, "If a doula were a drug, it would be malpractice not to use it." *
My commitment is to provide everything within my doula power to facilitate the healthy progress of your labor. As a seasoned doula, that power is grounded in 23 year's experience and attendance at over 400 births.
Sometimes labor & birth doesn't go the way you think it will. Should it be decided that medical intervention is necessary, I provide much needed emotional support through the unexpected challenges. I help you to understand what is happening and to receive information to make the best decisions for the care of you and your baby. I am there by your side providing comfort, reassurance and continued ongoing physical & practical support.
"In any society, the way a woman gives birth and the kind of care given to her and the baby points sharply as an arrowhead to the key values of the culture."
Sheila Kitzinger, Women as Mothers
"Debra gave excellent support that was exceptionally compassionate and caring. I strongly recommend her for her talent, wisdom & intuitive support."
Tracy W.
"Debra was absolutely indispensable. Not only did she keep us sane, calm and well rested, but she made our experience more intimate and romantic. For me, natural birth turned out to be an empowering and PLEASURABLE experience." Christine C.
"Nature mostly gets it right in birth." Ina May Gaskin
