Naturopathic Doula

what is a Naturopathic doula?

A Naturopathic Doula is similar to a doula in that they provide mental-emotional and physical support to labouring women, but they may also provide additional Naturopathic care throughout the entire pregnancy and post-partum. This is helpful for optimizing pregnancy health and preventing or treating pregnancy related conditions. Doulas act as coaches, educators and advocates for women, providing pain relief during labour. Naturopathic doulas may use all of their modalities for additional pain relief during labour and delivery. Doulas support women alongside their chosen OB/Gyn, Doctor or Midwife.

“ The moment a child is born, the mother is also born.”

— Anonymous

What are the benefits?

Benefits to Mom

Natural pain relief & active relaxation techniques offered during labour
Fewer c-sections
Shorter labour with less complications
Fewer requests for interventions during labour
Improved recovery and healing time
May decrease post-partum depression rates
A more positive experience
24/7 on-call support with ND in weeks prior to labour

Benefits to baby

Fewer admissions to special care
Easier breastfeeding experience
More affectionate post-partum mothers
Fewer interventions with less side effects
Shorter hospital stay
Post-partum visit with ND
Enhanced bonding rates between mom and baby due to relaxation techniques, education, nutritional and nutraceutical support

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Doula if I’m having my baby in a hospital setting?

Yes, absolutely! Doulas should support you in any space you decide to have your child. They may provide education around your options so that you feel supported and knowledgable in choosing the right location for you and your family. Women that are considered high-risk are encouraged to labour in hospital.

Can a Doula still be helpful even if I’m planning on having an epidural?

Yes! In this case, a Naturopathic Doula can be very helpful as they provide you with Naturopathic medical care surrounding your pregnancy leading up to delivery day. In addition, they may provide mental-emotional support, offer information and advocate for you in labour. They may also provide pain relief in early labour until the epidural is administered. This may help delay the use of epidural until you are further along, which may prevent longer births and increased risk of requiring a c-section.

Can I work with you even if I don’t want a Doula at my birth?

Of course - I work with many patients who I follow from conception throughout pregnancy who do not wish to have labour attendance. Other patients plan on having labour attendance and change their mind in the moment - that’s okay too! Often times this means skipping L & D and working with moms post-partum for preventing exhaustion, anxiety and depression or improving breastfeeding success. My goal is to support your needs and wishes along the way.

How much does it cost? Is it covered by insurance?

Naturopathic doula visits during pregnancy are similar to Naturopathic appointment rates set by the clinic. In home visit rates may differ. Each woman decides on the number of visits they require, however, I generally recommend one visit per trimester and 1-2 post-partum visits. These are covered by most extended healthcare plans. The birth itself may be covered by insurance as well, depending on your insurance plan. For more information on rates and packages, please book a consult below or inquire here.

Dr. Samantha Zahavi, ND is available for both virtual appointments and in-person visits at her Midtown Toronto clinic.

book a free 10 minute consult