The Long Island Doula Connection

Welcome!

Thank you to everyone for their patience as we undergo changes with our site. While our site may still be under construction, the doulas are always working, and happy to answer any questions by phone or email. Please visit our contact page for a list of services, and who the appropriate contact person is.

  

What will you find on this site?

Information on our various services: Childbirth Education;Weekend & 1-day Workshops; Labor Doula Services;Postpartum Doula Care; Blessingway Services & Supplies; Breastfeeding Support; Waterbirth Support & Tub Rental Information; Babywearing Support & Supplies; Gift Certificate Ordering Information

 

Why Use A Doula?

 

According to DONA International, one certifying agency for doulas: Women have complex needs during childbirth and the weeks that follow. In addition to medical care and the love and companionship provided by their partners, women need consistent, continuous reassurance, comfort, encouragement and respect. They need individualized care based on their circumstances and preferences.

DONA International doulas are educated and experienced in childbirth and the postpartum period. We are prepared to provide physical (non-medical), emotional and informational support to women and their partners during labor and birth, as well as to families in the weeks following childbirth. We offer a loving touch, positioning and comfort measures that make childbearing women and families feel nurtured and cared for.

Numerous clinical studies have found that a doula’s presence at birth

  • tends to result in shorter labors with fewer complications
  • reduces negative feelings about one’s childbirth experience
  • reduces the need for pitocin (a labor-inducing drug), forceps or vacuum extraction and cesareans
  • reduces the mother’s request for pain medication and/or epidurals

Research shows parents who receive support can:

  • Feel more secure and cared for
  • Are more successful in adapting to new family dynamics
  • Have greater success with breastfeeding
  • Have greater self-confidence
  • Have less postpartum depression
  • Have lower incidence of abuse

Who are the women of the Long Island Doula Connection?

Erin Maher, MS (Ed), CD(DONA), CCE(AAHCC), (LLL), Doula, Childbirth Educator

Regina Iaccarino, CD(DONA), (LLL), Labor & Postpartum Doula
Tamrha Richardson, CD(CBI), Labor Doula

Sharon Shebar, CD(DONA), Labor Doula Reiki Practitioner

Where do we provide services?

Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Eastern New Jersey