Doula Home Page | Antepartum Doulas | Labor Doulas | Postpartum Doulas | Pricing

The antepartum doula is a woman trained to provide physical and emotional support, evidence-based information, and practical assistance throughout a high-risk pregnancy. Bonita Birthing Solutions (BBS) doulas are trained to address the unique needs of families experiencing high-risk pregnancy. Friends and family may be supportive, but their perception of bed rest often is that the woman is “relaxing in bed,” whereas her perception is that she is “actively fighting for her baby’s life” (Johnson & Kraut, 1990). Our antepartum doulas provide constant and consistent support that alleviates maternal stress. Our doulas can link families to needed resources, such as web site support groups, books, and periodicals. BBS can provide complete childbirth education to women on bed rest. Our doulas also provide referrals to adjunct care providers, such as massage therapists and pregnancy photographers who work with women in their homes. Through education and one-on-one support BBS doulas teach mothers how to relax both body and mind, decreasing the tension and anxiety associated with high-risk pregnancies. Using modalities, such as guided imagery, self-hypnosis, progressive relaxation, along with aromatherapy and massage, your antepartum doula will impart you with the ability to achieve a deep state of relaxation throughout pregnancy and beyond.

Practical support includes sibling care, running errands, light house-keeping, and nutritious meal preparation. When a women is on bed rest, her doula will create an environment in which mom-to-be can safely perform self-care, work, and leisure activities from her “nest” in home or hospital. Emphasis is placed on adherence to your physician’s guidelines, while adapting the environment to meet your unique needs. Our antepartum doulas also provide support for families with a child in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit .