DONA International, a leader in evidence-based doula training and certification, states that “a birth doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a mother before, during and shortly after childbirth to help her achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible.” DONA International promotes the highest quality perinatal support for birthing mothers and their families by setting the standard for birth doula education and training, and by advocating the research-based benefits of doula care. Families can feel assured that when working with a DONA certified doula, they will receive the highest standard of professionalism. As a certified DONA birth doula, I draw upon my training to provide pregnant women with the support they need through pregnancy, birth, and immediately postpartum.
As an LPN, I draw from my past experience working at the hospital’s maternity ward to facilitate effective communication between the mother and the hospital staff. My medical terminology education equips me with the knowledge I need to effectively communicate medical terms in a way that is easily understood. I am familiar with medical procedures and interventions. I am also comfortable working with doctors, midwives and nurses, providing me with the confidence I need to keep essential communication going while assisting the mother with her birth plan wishes. I have a unique perspective of the clinical side of pregnancy and childbirth that enables me to better understand each birth as it unfolds.
My personal journey through motherhood may give me the best advantage at being an effective birth doula. I have birthed and breastfed my four children in various environments, with the support of midwives and doctors as care providers. My pregnancies and births were among the happiest moments of my life, but they were not without worry or concern. I have experienced health issues during my pregnancies, and also experienced years of miscarriage and infertility. I have learned and grown so much during all of the heartache and joy that I have experienced during my own personal journey through motherhood. This gives me valuable insight into the unexpected twists and turns during pregnancy and birth, and also provides me with perspective and empathy as I approach each mother’s own unique pregnancy and birth journey. I have grown to understand the importance of flexibility, patience, and acceptance to handle life’s twists and turns. I believe that birth, as beautiful as it is, can also be vulnerable and uncertain. My hope, as your birth doula, is to be a source of support that strengthens and empowers you to be brave and at peace during your pregnancy and childbirth. As your doula, I am here to support you, your decisions, and the birth you want so that you are fully supported to care for yourself and your sweet baby.
Rachel Kline – CD(DONA), LPN, and blessed mama to four
My goals as your doula are the following:
- To provide emotional, physical and informational support during the childbirth process.
- To facilitate peaceful relations between you and your medical professionals.
- To encourage your acquisition of resources pertaining to your particular needs, i.e. prenatal health, exercise, parenting, etc.
- To help you grow your education in prenatal, labor, and postpartum information.
- To inspire your confidence as a mother (you can do this!).
- To help you prepare for the incredible adventure of growing a family…your family!
Training + Certifications
- Certified Birth Doula (CD) under DONA
- CPR Certified – Red Cross
- LPN (West Virginia State Board for Licensed Practical Nurses)
- Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) Provider through American Academy of Pediatrics