A birth doula helps the mother and her partner meet the demands of childbirth and labor.  A birth doula can suggest different positions and offer informational support, but most importantly she is a calming, reassuring presence dedicated 100% to the birthing couple.  Studies have shown that having a doula present can reduce the cesarean rate by at least 45%.  A doula is not a substitute for a midwife or Obstetrician, but she is an integral part of your birth team.

Research shows that having a birth doula:

• decreases the rate of cesarean sections by 45%
• decreases requests for epidurals by 10 - 40%
• decreases requests for pain medications by 31%
• decreases the need for forceps by 34%
• decreases the need for Pitocin by 50%

For more information about birth doula support, please visit www.mothertreebirth.com.

Who offers labor support at Mississippi Health Center?

Jennifer Steele is not only a birth doula with Mother Tree Birth Services, but also a licensed acupuncturist and shiatsu therapist at Mississippi Health Center.  Jennifer can do acupuncture or acupressure during labor to help keep women calm so that they can more effectively manage contractions, as well as to keep labor from stalling out.  Supportive touch is a big factor of Jennifer’s support as a doula; incorporating shiatsu or simply a reassuring hand can encourage moms to let go of any tension and go deeper into themselves.  Jennifer has been attending births for over three years and working with pregnant women from the prenatal to the immediate postpartum period is her passion. 

To inquire about Jennifer’s availability for your birth, or to learn more about her doula services please call the Mother Tree main line at

503-577-8897 and visit www.mothertreebirth.com.