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Experienced in natural childbirth as a dedicated birth companion, Monica's passion for birth stemmed shortly after being a mother herself. Upon completing professional training, she founded Life Links Doula Services | your connection to valuable resources and unwavering support; from pregnancy, to birth, and beyond.
WHAT IS A DOULA?
A doula is a non-medical, trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to their client before, during and shortly after childbirth to help them achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible.
Why is this important?
Evidence shows that the continuous presence of a doula in labor results in reduced rates of: induction, use of pain medication, Cesarean deliveries, and other important benefits to the mother and their baby.
Furthermore, Monica's compassionate approach (and undivided attention throughout labor), facilitates positive birth experiences for clients and couples to cherish for years to come.
Doula Services
What We Offer
PRIOR TO BIRTH
Unlimited phone or email support is available upon hire during regular business hours; 24/7 on-call availability beginning at 37 weeks.
Before your birth, you will have access to a variety of handouts, templates, literature and books pertaining to pregnancy, labor, breastfeeding and more.
Monica will meet with you and your spouse or partner (if applicable) at least once before labor to become acquainted, to discuss your priorities including fears or concerns, your birth plan, and how we might best work together. She also wants to know your best ways of coping with pain and fatigue.
In addition to prenatal and postpartum planning sessions, you'll have an opportunity to participate in a Labor Dress Rehearsal. This 1:1 interactive meeting is a chance to practice Comfort Measures, review Stages of Labor, and solidify your birth plans.
PERSONALIZED CARE
Monica considers your birth space as sacred, and her bedside manner reflects this belief.
Her ability to provide perspective and knowlege, education and coaching, and opportunities for relief or rejuvenation are invaluable during the intensely demanding and arduous process of childbirth.
Fostering a safe, secure and relaxing space to achieve the birth you envision in a calm and loving environment, is of utmost importance.
Highly empathetic and observant, Monica will anticipate and respond to you or your loved ones' physical, emotional and practical needs throughout the duration of childbirth.
When Monica is on the birth team, couples are both taken care of. This makes for a memorable, positive and peaceful experience for all to enjoy.
COMFORT MEASURES TO EASE LABOR
LED candles, essential oils, birth & peanut balls, hot & cold packs, massage rollers, affirmation cards, visual aids, a Rebozo shawl (and more), are available for you to incorporate during labor as you wish. These natural pain management methods, along with Monica’s hands-on techniques, promote labor progression and a relaxing atmosphere to lovingly help bring your baby earthside.
Following Delivery
POSTPARUM RECOVERY
Monica will typically remain with you at least two hours after birth, or until you are comfortable and your family is ready for quiet time together. She can help with establishing breastfeeding and latch, recognizing baby’s cues for feeding, taking pictures to commemorate your special day, and other personal requests.
Monica offers an optional postpartum visit to check in with you and your baby once you’re settled in at home, to review your birth experience and answer any questions you may have, at no extra cost.
LACTATION SUPPORT
Breastfeeding support and referrals are available upon request up to six weeks after delivery to help you and your baby get off to a great start. In-home postpartum visits can be arranged for an additional small fee based on your needs and location.
Next Steps
Schedule a Complementary Consultation
Use the View Calendar button or give me a call at (941) 465-6850 to book a free consultation with Monica via Zoom.
I look forward to seeing if we're a good fit and answering any questions you may have!
Meet Your Doula
A Trusted Birth Companion
Married with four beautiful children, I became a doula simply because I love birth!
Professionally trained through DONA International, I also have a background in occupational therapy. And work on an 'as-needed' basis at a local skilled nursing facility.
My personal birth experiences (all of which were entirely unmedicated), affirmed the notion that the way you are treated in childbirth has long-lasting impacts on your mind, body and emotions.
Mindful, I bring a calming energy, an assortment of comfort measures, and most of all huge heart to each birth I attend.
Fueled by a desire to support and uplift mothers and their families; it is an honor, joy, and privilege to witness the profound miracle of birth, and support women on their journeys.
Thank you for considering me for doula services.