Michiana Doulas

Contact Info

2009-08-30T18:29:00.000-07:00

Until I can get the coding done for more links on this site, here is the contact info for our doulas:

Shanti Bradley
(574) 323-6915
sbradley1979@gmail.com

Michelle Dolan
(574) 520-3188
velasnr@gmail.com

Bridget McGann
(304) SAY-HI2B
bridget.a.mcgann@gmail.com

Michiana Doulas provides support system for expectant parents

2009-08-16T20:23:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Michiana Doulas provides support system for expectant parents

GRANGER, IN -- A group of childbirth support professionals in the area recently formed Michiana Doulas, an organization dedicated to the education of families on the many choices they have in planning the births of their babies, as well as to providing emotional support during labor and delivery. On August 29th, in Granger, Michiana Doulas will be hosting a complimentary tea for expectant mothers, where discussions will be held about natural childbirth, breastfeeding, and other natural parenting choices such as whether or not to sleep with your baby.

Childbirth in Michiana

In July of 2008, Michelle Dolan and Bridget McGann of Granger and Shanti Bradley of South Bend noticed a lack of resources and support for mothers in the South Bend area who wish to pursue natural childbirth and child-rearing methods. Dolan herself had intended on a natural birth for her first child and, due to unforeseen circumstances, her son Jamie was born via Cesarean section, causing Dolan a long and painful recovery and difficulty initiating breastfeeding. She would later learn that not every aspect of her delivery was out of her control, and that the C-section might have been prevented if she’d had the proper guidance and preparation. After hearing of other Michiana women having similar experiences, Dolan, McGann and Bradley decided to work to support and empower other women in achieving the births they envision for their babies.

Dolan, McGann and Bradley all entered training with DONA International (www.dona.org), which trains birth professionals from all walks of life to guide families through the birthing process. They learn to help educate parents about their many birthing options, work with them to develop a birth plan, and provide emotional and physical support during and immediately following the labor and birth process. This type of professional is most commonly referred to as a “doula,” which is an ancient Greek word meaning “a woman who serves.”

Since childbirth moved out of the home and into the hospital, the modern doula has acquired an additional role: a sort of medical "translator." While doulas are not medical professionals and do not make any medical decisions or perform any medical procedures, they can be helpful in translating “medical jargon” into layman's terms and guiding parents as they navigate the sometimes overwhelming world of hospital birth.

Many families, however, are choosing to have their babies at home, due to concerns about rising C-section rates. A survey of all hospitals within a 30-mile radius of South Bend indicates that 26 percent of all Michiana hospital deliveries are via C-section. This is far above the World Health Organization recommendations for optimal Cesarean section rates, which fall between 5 and 10 percent (Althabe and Belizan 2006).

This discrepancy indicates a number of cesareans that are possibly being performed unnecessarily. A 2007 study at the Boston University School of Public Health indicates that Caesarean sections performed without a medical reason result in longer hospital stays, higher costs and more than twice as many re-hospitalizations as vaginal deliveries. With rising healthcare costs being a hot topic in the national media, an estimated $4.7 billion per year is being spent performing surgery on people who are not even "sick": laboring mothers.

There are many problems contributing to the rise in C-section rates in the United States, including excessive malpractice lawsuits, practitioners refusal to inform women of the option to deliver vaginally after a previous cesarean birth (VBAC), side effects of commonly used interventions, and a general casual attitude towards surgery. Despite a clear call from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for more judicious use of the procedure, Cesarean section has become so commonplace in the U.S. that it is easy to overlook the fact that it is major abdominal surgery and that there are many extra risks in comparison with vaginal birth. The risks for the mother include maternal death, infection, emergency hysterectomy, re-hospitalization, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and postpartum depression. Babies delivered via C-section run a high risk of accidental surgical cuts, respiratory problems, difficulties with breastfeeding and asthma. (www.childbirthconnection.org)

The role of a doula

Many mothers go into labor unaware of just how much of an impact they can have on the outcome of their births. A doula can provide the informational and educational support so that parents have the tools they need to achieve the birth they want.

First, in a prenatal meeting, doula can help parents discover precisely what their priorities are with regards to where and how their baby is born. Then, during labor, the doula helps keep the parents focused on those priorities, and provides continuous physical and emotional support. She can also utilize massage and guided breathing techniques to help the mother cope with labor pain so as to avoid medicinal intervention, and provide guidance and assistance with turning a posterior presenting baby. These and other measures can be taken before and during labor to avoid the necessity for a C-section.

Beyond these purposes, the role of the doula can vary depending on each family's individual needs. Some families, such as perhaps a young single mom, may need the doula to act as a labor coach and primary support person. Others, such as third-time parents delivering twins via C-section, may need the doula to translate medical jargon and manage the comings and goings of visitors. The doula does not replace other support, such as fathers, grandmothers or friends; rather, they can enhance the care the parents already have by providing the perspective of a trained professional. She may think of solutions or comfort measures that family members may not think of, such as rocking on a birthing ball. Most doulas also carry supplies that parents may have forgotten to pack -- heat packs and massage oils, for example.

While a doula may provide information about medical procedures or discuss the various interventions which may become necessary, a doula is not a medical professional and does not perform any medical procedures. A doula will provide information and options, but she will never make decisions for the parents or tell them what they should do. Rather, she will help prepare parents for the birth experience, and empower them to participate actively in the process at every stage.

For hospital births, DONA takes special care to train doulas to work effectively with medical personnel, without "stepping on toes." Most doctors and nurses are very receptive of doulas, once they are familiar with the concept. Many of the nurses at Memorial Hospital of South Bend are trained as doulas. "We respect the role that everyone plays in childbirth -- from the medical staff to Grandma and Grandpa," says McGann. "It takes a village to raise a child, and it takes a village to deliver one as well!" But while doctors and nurses may come and go throughout labor, a doula's continuous presence provides a sense of continuity and security that a woman in labor needs.

Contrary to common misconception, the service of a doula is not a luxury reserved for the wealthy, privileged few. Fee ranges vary from city to city, but in the Michiana area, a doula may charge between $300-$500, depending on qualifications and experience. This usually includes one or more prenatal meetings, continuous support throughout labor as well as for a few hours after delivery. Some doulas specialize in prenatal work, and some may be willing to stay with the family for a few days or weeks after the baby is born, to help new parents and/or older siblings adjust to the new baby, and some may do light house work as well. Many doulas in training are willing to provide their services free of charge if parents are willing to fill out a short evaluation form as part of her certification process.

Complimentary Tea for Expectant Mothers

In an effort to educate the public, Michiana Doulas will be hosting a complimentary tea for expectant mothers on August 29th at the McGann Hay Chapel in Granger. As mothers and their guests sip tea and munch on finger foods, several speakers will hold discussions on various natural child-rearing options. “We want to make families aware of how many choices they really do have," says McGann.

Included in the presentations will be a discussion about the tools that can be used to achieve the goal of a vaginal childbirth with or without medication, presented by Michiana Doulas. The role of a doula will also be addressed. "Our goal is for us to make the community aware that our service is available to them," says Bradley. "I've talked to so many moms who tell me they would love to have had a doula, but either didn't know about them or couldn't find any in the area. This tea is our way of saying 'Here we are!' so that expectant families know how to find us."

Several area professionals have also been invited to present on special topics. Suzanne Makielski, an Occupational Therapist and Yoga instructor will be presenting on the benefits and techniques of infant massage -- another useful tool in any new parent's arsenal. When incorporated into baby's nighttime routine, infant massage can relax baby and mother and help both sleep sooner and sounder.

Another vital topic covered will be breastfeeding. According to Le Leche League of South Bend, only 6% of Indiana mothers choose to breastfeed, despite mounting evidence of its physical and mental benefits for both mother and child. That number can only be raised by making support and resources readily available for nursing mothers when they’re struggling to make breastfeeding work. Representing Le Leche League will be Anita Wright of South Bend.

Also among the discussions will be the controversial question of “co-sleeping.” While the term encompasses several different ways of sleeping with your child nearby (in a bassinet next to the bed, for example), the most controversial of these methods is the practice of parents placing their babies to sleep in their bed with them. Since 2006 the Indiana Department of Child Services has been running a controversial public service announcement wherein a mother sleeping with her baby on the couch awakes to find that the baby has stopped breathing. “Never sleep with your baby,” the ad warns. But world-renowned pediatrician Dr. William Sears and Dr. James McKenna, director of the Mother-Baby Sleep Laboratory at the University of Notre Dame both believe that the studies that initially raised the alarm about co-sleeping were flawed. Going even further, Dr. Sears states that "Co-sleeping, if practiced wisely and safely, can actually lower the risk of SIDS." Safe practices include placing the baby to sleep on his back, and clearing his sleeping area of loose clothing, sheets and pillows. A briefing on the research and further reading material will be provided, so that parents have the tools to make an informed decision on this issue.

The Michiana Doulas Complimentary Tea for Expectant Mothers will be held on August 29th from 3:00 - 4:00 PM at McGann Hay Chapel on St. Rd. 23 in Granger. Door prizes, including a free doula, a belly casting and a baby sling, will also be given out. Admission and everything included is free, but guests are asked to RSVP by August 27th. Guests may register online at michianadoulas.com or by calling (574) 532-8083. Family and friends are welcome.

About Michiana Doulas

Michiana Doulas is a not-for-profit networking group founded in July of 2008 by Bridget McGann, Michelle Dolan, and Shanti Bradley in an effort to bring increased support to Michiana women before, during and following childbirth. The group also works to bring mother-infant care professionals together in order to create a stronger support system and local resources for mothers who choose natural birth and child-rearing options. More information can be found on the web at http://www.michianadoulas.com.

To request interviews or for more information please contact Bridget McGann at (304) 729-4422.

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Schedule of events change

2009-08-14T00:39:00.000-07:00

Please note: We regret to inform you that due to unforseen circumstances, Dr. McKenna will not be present for the tea. We will still be providing some valuable information regarding his research. We of course are grateful to Dr. McKenna for his enthusiasm and hope to see him at our next event!

And there is also an addition to the speaker lineup -- Suzanne Makielski, an occupational therapist and yoga teacher (Memorial Hospital), will be presenting on the benefits and techniques of infant massage! Thanks Suzanne!

And lastly, there is still plenty of time to RSVP. You may do so by phone at (574) 532-8083 or email at michianadoulas@gmail.com.

Have a pleasant weekend and look for a press release early next week!

Confirmed Speakers

2009-08-03T15:26:00.001-07:00

We have recently confirmed two very exciting speakers who will be joining us for Tummies and Tea on August 29th!

One is Dr. James McKenna from Notre Dame. You may have heard of him, as he is mentioned in the Dr. Sears parenting books. Dr. McKenna is world-renowned for his research in mother-infant co-sleeping and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). We are going to talk about this controversial subject, what his research has revealed about it, and what you need to know to help your baby sleep safely and soundly!

Read more about Dr. McKenna at the Mother-Baby Behavioral Sleep Lab website.
Also, you can read several of his publications over at The Natural Child Project -- By the way, we LOVE this site! Bookmark their main page!

Thanks so much to Dr. McKenna for donating some of your time. We are very excited to hear about what he has to say!

The other speaker we have confirmed is Anita Wright from Le Leche League of South Bend. She is going to talk about the thing that mommies and babies do best -- breastfeeding!

The benefits of breastfeeding are too long to list, but did you know that only 6% of Indiana moms choose to do it? Le Leche League's mission is to provide support and guidance for mothers who choose to breastfeed, in hopes of raising that number. Mother-to-mother support is what they are all about. Mothers who have nursed their babies know that their milk is always fresh, completely free, and requires no preparation!

We are so pleased to have this reputable organization on board. They do wonderful work!

Visit Le Leche League of South Bend here: http://lllofsouthbend.blogspot.com/
Visit Le Leche League International: http://www.llli.org/

Thanks to everyone who is helping to bring this event together! It's going to be a wonderful time!

EVENT: Complimentary Tea for Expectant Mothers!

2009-07-29T22:09:00.000-07:00

Expecting?

You are cordially invited to a
Complimentary Tea for Expectant Mothers!
a.k.a. "The Grand and Fabulous MaterniTEA Party!" or "Tummies and Tea!"

Host: Michiana Doulas
Date: Saturday, August 29, 2009
Time: 3:00pm - 4:30pm

Location:
McGann Hay Granger Chapel
13260 SR 23 (Entrance off Cherry Road, behind the pond)
Granger, IN

Phone: 574-532-8083
Email: michianadoulas@gmail.com

Activities:
- FREE hot & cold tea assortments
- FREE hors d'oeuvres
- Fabulous door prizes -- Including but not limited to a free belly casting, a free baby sling, a free doula, and more!
- Activities for older children

Special Discussions:
- Natural Childbirth
- Breastfeeding
- Babywearing
- Co-Sleeping
- Infant massage

Space is limited!!
Call in today to reserve your FREE spot! Bring your friends!

(304) 729-4422
michianadoulas.com

Visit us on Facebook!

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Hope to see you there! :)

A few articles from New York Times

2008-08-15T19:40:00.000-07:00

Well: Most Moms Give Up on Breast-Feeding

By Tara Parker-Pope

Published: August 11, 2008

A new report examines trends among women who continue to breastfeed and those who quit.

Well: C-Section Moms Less Likely to Have More Kids

By Tara Parker-Pope

Published: April 1, 2008

Babies born by C-section are more likely to be only children, a new study shows.

Well: Formula Freebies Cut Breast-Feeding Time

By Tara Parker-Pope

Published: March 20, 2008

Hospitals undermine efforts to promote breastfeeding by giving women formula samples.

Growing business cards

2008-08-12T14:59:00.000-07:00

As I attempt to develop a brand for Michiana Doulas, my research has led me to some interesting ideas, including a growing business card by designer Jamie Weck. Cute!

South Bend Tribune - Indiana Cutting Funds for Maternal Health

2008-08-01T19:55:00.000-07:00

Article published Aug 1, 2008
Indiana cutting funds for expectant mom programs
Community event comes just after state cuts county's funds for maternal health.
By ALICIA GALLEGOS Tribune Staff Writer, South Bend Tribune

SOUTH BEND -- When 19-year-old Amber Hurt became pregnant, she went through a range of emotions, including anger, depression and fear.

Now, at seven months along and counting, she says she's come to terms with the way her life has had to change, but her biggest worry is how she can give the best care to the precious life inside her.

"What scares me the most is the stuff that people tell me," she says, "about sudden infant death syndrome and people that smoke.

"Am I being safe enough?"

Hurt's question was one of dozens answered by prenatal and maternity experts Thursday at the Charles Black Center during the Community Baby Shower.A group of about 60 young mothers and moms-to-be sat in a room decorated in pinks and blues while listening to organizers speak on sexually transmitted diseases, breast-feeding, smoking, postpartum depression, adoption and prenatal care.

The event was a collaborative effort between various community agencies and came at a difficult time for advocates of prenatal and maternity health.

Just this week, agencies received word that the state is cutting money for many maternal health programs across Indiana, including in St. Joseph County.

While speaking to the crowd about the GIFTS Program run by the St. Joseph County Health Department, Yolanda Austin broke into tears as she explained that the program won't continue next year.

Funding is being eradicated for the health department's maternal health program, along with Austin's grant-funded position."I take my job very seriously," Austin said, her voice breaking. "And I love all you girls very much."

The health department's director of nursing, Barb Baker, explained in an earlier Tribune interview that the program was financed by the Indiana Department of Health with federal dollars.

The state had reportedly looked at programs' outcome data and other criteria to decide which to cut, Baker said. Her program's cut was likely influenced by a high turnover rate for supervisors, she said, and some trouble catching early term pregnancy clients.

"It's not anyone's fault," she said. "(But) with the county budget the way it is, I have no choice but not to have this program."

Across the state, 15 other maternal health programs were defunded, according to Baker, and other programs suffered a loss of 10 percent or more.An Indiana Department of Health spokesman said he could not return a request for information on the cuts by Thursday.

Austin said her clients will be referred to programs at Memorial Hospital and St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, but she stressed how important prenatal care is locally, in a county that has high infant mortality rates and increased low birth weights.

"In the whole Michiana area, there's a great need," she said. "These women need support."

Support was a key subject at Thursday's Baby Shower as advocates stressed that the mothers sitting before them were not alone.

Many of them were teenagers, single mothers and moms of color, who experts say are more at risk for low birth weights and other prenatal ailments."We provide resources, support, education. You don't always have to come to us, we can come to you," explained speaker Yolanda Washington, a prenatal coordinator from Memorial Hospital. "We are not accessing the care that is there for us. It is up to us to take control."

The young mothers had plenty of questions.

"How long do you keep taking your prenatal vitamins?" asked one mom.

"How long do you keep doing the postpartum thing?" another wanted to know.

"How long do you have to be in (a prenatal) program?" still another asked.Near the close of the shower, speaker Jacqueline Davis from the St. Joseph County Minority Health Coalition spoke to the group about the dangers of smoking.

As she ended her talk, she impressed upon the mothers that they will be the one person having the biggest effect on their children's development both before and after they are born.

"Everyone here today, is nothing but love for you," she said. "But you can't expect me to influence your child. You know who they have to be influenced by?

"You."

Staff writer Alicia Gallegos:
agallegos@sbtinfo.com
(574) 235-6368