The word "DOULA" comes from the ancient Greek meaning "a woman who serves."
In addition to midwifery services, Blissful Midwifery also offers personalized doula support. Raquel offers doula care for hospital, home, waterbirths and VBACs. A doula provides physical, emotional, and informational support throughout labor and birth. In this role, Raquel's sole purpose is to care for and support the laboring person throughout their birth process.
Every labor is different. During your labor, Raquel will respond to your cues in order to provide the individualized support you need. She may coach your breathing, massage your back, and wipe your forehead gently with a cool washcloth. She will answer your questions, teach you comfort measures until you find one that works for you, and whisper words that you find encouraging during your contractions. She may sit quietly and bring you confidence simply by being there. Or, she may give you a foot massage for 12 hours straight. It all depends on how you and your labor progress and what you need in the moment.