Meet Monique
I am a DONA (Doulas Of North America) trained doula and have been supporting couples since October 2006. Labour, birth and breastfeeding have been my passion since expecting my first child in 1996. I live in Guelph Ontario with my husband and children. After the birth of my son I was convinced my second calling was to become a doula (my first of course being a wife and mother!)
I believe that the birth of a child
is one of the most intimate and miraculous experience in a persons/couples
life. Each birth is truly unique. It is my philosophy that a positive birth experience comes from knowledge and the power to make informed choices, whatever those choices may be. I support women through all types of births; home- births, hospital births, cesareans, medicated and unmedicated, my goal is to help you achieve the birth that you desire.
I am also a member of Doula CARE, an Ontario based non-profit association supporting doulas who uphold Doula C.A.R.E.'s
values and commitment to a positive birth experience.
Why use a doula?
Renewed interest in doulas is growing rapidly with the recognition of their
important contribution to improved physical outcomes and emotional well-being of
mothers, infants and fathers.
Six randomized control trial studies involving both lay and professional labour
support persons at low-risk births showed:
*50% decrease in Cesarean section
*25% decrease in the length of labor
*40% decrease in the use of oxytocin
*30% decrease in the use of narcotics for pain relief
*30% decrease in use of forceps
*lower maternal fever, lower number of days in NICU, fewer septic workups
*improved breastfeeding
*increased time spent with the baby
*decreased postpartum depression
(Summarized by Penny Simkin, Chapter 3, Mothering the Mother
by Klaus, Kennell and Klaus, 1993)
photograph by Monique McCardle
Doulas and Partners
Doulas recognize the importance of the fathers (or chosen birth partners)
presence and participation and she in no way intends to replace him. Instead, through her
knowledge and experience, the doula will involve and support the father's
participation in the birth experience. Many fathers feel overwhelmed with the
responsibility of primary support person and appreciate the doulas involvement.
