My Mission
My goal is to help a woman get the type of birth experience she wants. Offering my services
as a doula allows me to help parents transition into this stage in their lives on a positive note, feeling healthy, happy,
and satisfied with the experience. I have supported a variety of births from natural, home, planned induction, and cesarean.
Families I have worked with have described me as confident, having a gentle manner, and knowledgeable with my hands.
I have a great love for what I do and am often filled with awe by the processes of birth and breastfeeding .
Training and Experience
I came into doula work through a very circuitous route. I have been enjoying my Rolfing
and movement therapy practice in Sacramento since my trainings in 1995 and 2002. My husband and I have raised two wonderful
sons who are well on their way, and I found that I was missing being around babies. I studied and began teaching infant
massage in 2005 and teach prenatal yoga at Shanti Yoga Studio on Howe Avenue (http//www.shanti-yoga-studio.com).
I've also catered for many retreats and parties, was an elementary school librarian for 3 years, served on numerous
boards in various capacities, and lived in San Diego, Arcata, Montana, Arkansas and New Mexico. I considered a career
as a midwife many years ago, I have come back to this arena and I am now happily a certified birth doula through
DONA. While I don't have plans to pursue midwifery, infant massage, prenatal yoga and doula work are wonderful and
satisfying practices and keep me in touch with women and babies.
Services
My birth doula services include a complimentary interview in person, 24/7 on-call commitment,
qualified doula backup, a near encyclopedic referral list for local resources, and unlimited telephone support. Optimally,
I like to have two prenatal visits with clients where we can review (or create) your birth plan, covering your hopes, concerns
and preferences for your birth. If you wish, I'll accompany you to one of your prenatal doctor visits. If you
and your partner are interested, I 'll teach helpful massage moves that will help you feel better. At birth time, I
join you when and where you need support and stay with you continually until you are settled after birth and everyone is happy.
I work alongside your caregivers respectfully and confidently. My first postpartum visit will be in the first few days
after birth and includes breastfeeding support, practical help, and mentoring.
As a postpartum doula I provide support to your new family in the first weeks after birth.
I will help you with breastfeeding, newborn babycare, and your personal healing from birthing a baby. I am happy to
roll up my sleeves and provide light housekeeping and laundry; I have extensive experience with preparing food, which I will
easily adapt to your specialized dietary needs and preferences; I love to help out with older siblings, do the grocery shopping,
run errands, and give lots of TLC during this postpartum transition period of little sleep and many questions. I am
available for occasional overnight support.
What Others are Saying
"I know I wouldn't have had the birth experience I wanted if you had not been there. Your
presence calmed and relaxed me and helped me feel confident in myself." Beth, on the wonderful waterbirth of her
second child, baby Gannon
"We were appreciative of Lillian's knowledge, skills and compassion during the birth of our daughter.
We could not have know in advance just how valuable Lillian's help would be to us. She provided excellent guidance for
my husband and me with her birthing techniques." Renee and David, on the birth of baby Breana
"Your gentle manner and kindness were greatly appreciated." Dr. Maaya and Aaron, on the
birth of baby Aanya
"Your ideas [positioning] and massage were especially helpful." Korinn and David, on the
birth of baby Casey
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