With Child
Welcome!
Doula Services
Nestled in the friendly town of Fortuna in Humboldt County is a small resource center for pregnant families!
Hello! My name is Tracey Dahlen and With Child Doula Services is my heart and soul! I feel truly blessed to be able to provide support to women and families during this beautiful stage in their life. As you browse through this site you will find a variety of services available to you during pregnancy and shortly afterwards. My passion is to further educate families towards a healther lifestyle, to encourage them to enjoy the journey of pregnancy and to help them be the best parents they can be!
I am also a proud member of the Doula Alliance of Humboldt County!
I look forward to meeting you!
Tracey Dahlen
Certified Doula
Holistic Massage Therapist
Photographer
Wife & Mother
Supporting families throughout the journey of pregnancy & childbirth
About Me
Let me introduce myself as a wife of 19 years and a mother to 3 amazing children. Laura is 18, Alisha is 13 and Tristan is 11 years old. We had our girls in the hospital with a fantastic doctor and had two beautiful natural birth experiences there. When we found out we were pregnant with our son I was excited to give birth at home. We prepared as much as possible and were blessed with an incredible homebirth experience that I feel honored to have had.
I have taken courses and been certified to be a midwives apprentice and for some time thought that I was on the road to becoming a midwife. Though life has led me away from midwifery, it has kept me greatly involved in pregnancy and birth.
Why I became a Doula
I was a Doula long before I even knew what one was. I attended the births of my friends and family members, all the while supporting, encouraging and loving the women throughout the whole process. I absolutely loved anything to do with birth and pregnancy.
When my husband Paul was in the Marine Corps, we lived on a military base for a few years. I found myself being drawn to the women who were pregnant and whose husbands were overseas. Most of the women didn't have any family in the area so I tried to fill that gap for them. This was my first experience of being a Doula to women who were not already my friends or family members.
By the time we got out of the military I had attended many births. We moved to McKinleyville, where my sister lived, in 1997. One day she brought over a newspaper article explaining what a Doula actually was and announcing the first Doula training in Arcata. I was thrilled that there was actually a name for what I was already doing! I eagerly attended this training and started working as a Doula in the Humboldt area shortly afterward.
I have now been a certified Doula for 11 years. My experience is wide-ranged from, non-intervention home and hospital births, to high-risk births and scheduled c-sections, and all that lies in-between. Being a Doula has been one of the most fulfilling jobs I have ever had! I feel so blessed and honored to be a part of this special time in a family's life.
I am constantly trying to come up with new or better ways to help women during labor and birth, which is why I decided to go through massage school.
I was already doing plenty of massage in the labor room but I didn't know exactly what I was doing and knew there were more techniques that would benefit the laboring women.
I attended a massage school in Mendocino County over 5 years ago to be able to bring more comfort to women during pregnancy, just as much as, during the birthing process. This has turned out to be one of my favorite services that I provide. There is nothing better than to be able to bring comfort to someone who is in need.
At the present time, I am studying to get my Bachelor of Science in Holistic Nutrition. Educating women on the importance of proper eating is one of my passions. I fully believe that good nutrition starts in the womb. There are many studies that show that children will carry a fondness for the types of foods that their mother ate while they were still in utero. With this in mind, I try to educate and encourage women to set up a good foundation for their child's nutritional future.
If you have ANY questions or comments please feel free to contact me!
Doula
Medical studies have shown that
having a doula present provides
the following benefits:
50% reduction in cesarean rate
60% reduction in epidural requests
40% reduction in the use of pitocin
25% shorter labor
30% reduction in use of analgesia
40% reduction in use of forceps
Mothering the Mother, Klaus, Kennell, &
Klaus, 1993
What Is a Doula?
What a funny word for such an important job.
Simply put, a Doula is a woman who helps another woman through pregnancy & childbirth.
A Doula is a non-medical support person. I work with you and your doctor to bring about the best birth experience possible.
Why Have a Doula?
Doulas help guide a woman through labor with the belief that birth is a normal life process, not a medical emergency. A doula is there before labor, giving information and education as the pregnant mother needs it. Studies show that the presence of a doula can result in shorter labors with fewer technical interventions and a greater feeling of satisfaction on the mother's part.
Doulas interpret and negotiate the mother's needs with the needs of the providers who are delivering the baby. Doulas visit the home after the birth, helping establish and sustain breastfeeding, and make sure the mother and baby are resting comfortably.
What With Child Doula Services Offers
DURING PREGNANCY
Unlimited Phone & E-mail Support
I am available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone and email from the date of hire. Please do not hesitate to call if you have ANY questions or just want to update me on your progress. At our first meeting I will give you my cell phone number for closer contact, if needed.
As your Doula, I will help you with any emotional support you may need during the hormonal time of pregnancy. I will help to incorporate the father in the pregnancy and help him to feel more connected to you and baby. Also, as your Doula, I can answer all of those small questions that we have during pregnancy but that we just dont get around to asking our doctor. I offer you nutritional support, giving you advice on what herbs, vitamins, and foods are wonderful to have during pregnancy.
BIRTH PLAN
We will discuss the risks and benefits of routine interventions and help create a birth plan that is right for you and your family.
CHILDBIRTH CLASS
Should your partner be unable to attend a class with you, I can fill in for him/her.
I can also be available to go with you to your ultrasound and doctor's appointments.
LABOR & DELIVERY
Doulas help tremendously during labor and delivery. I will be there as soon as you call and won't leave until after the baby is born. I will come to your home if you choose to labor there and will follow on to the hospital when the time comes. Mothers experience comfort in knowing that there is someone who stays with them throughout the entire labor and delivery process.
As your Doula, I will help the father feel more a part of the whole birth experience by explaining whats going on, by letting him know how he can help make you more comfortable, and by showing him ways to nurture and care for you during the entire labor. A Doula enhances the fathers role, she doesn't take over it.
Doulas also work with the extended family, (sister, mothers, aunts, etc.). Some people think that having a big family or a doting husband means that you dont need a Doula, when, in fact, it is very comforting to have someone who is medically educated to help the family understand the birthing process. As a Doula, I will incorporate the entire family in the experience, as well as, take
photos of family members as they get to see and hold the new bundle joy for the first time.
BIRTH STORY (upon request)
I can create a written account of your labor and baby's birth and present it to you during a postpartum visit.
BIRTH PHOTOGRAPHY
If requested, I will take pictures of your labor and birth. I charge a $10 fee for providing you with a disk. For no additional charge, I can provide your friends and family with a picture of your new family and baby via email. As soon as I return from your birth, I will send the email to your friends and family with the addresses you provide.
POSTPARTUM
I will make sure that breastfeeding is established within the first few hours after birth. I will be there to answer any questions you may have about the healing process, your newborn, or nursing. I can help teach you how to take care of your new baby. I will also come to your house a few days after birth to make sure you are resting comfortably and that nursing is going well.
"Having a Doula during my first
pregnancy was important because I
had someone experienced in
childbirth who would be my
personal advocate. I knew what I
wanted my birthing experience to be
like, I just did not know how to
express my wishes.
Having a Doula and a written birth
plan is the way to go, I do not plan
on going through another birth
without either." Heidi P.
Pregnancy
Newborns
Teens
Children
Families
Tracey Dahlen Photography
Please click on the above titles to check out the photos!
Pregnancy is such a beautiful time in a woman's life and sometimes women don't realize just how beautiful they actually are. My goal in photography is to help you see this beauty and to give you a special memento of your pregnancy.
You can incorporate your children, husband, pets, a favorite place in your home...just about anything that you would like. You can choose to wear whatever clothes you would like for your photo shoot. I encourage you to have many outfits to choose from or you may use my material if you would like photos that show more of your body.
I am also willing to go to the beach, redwoods, river, park or other destinations for outdoor photos. I work with color, sepia, and black & white so you can have your choice of which you would like. You can also choose some of each.
I welcome your ideas and views...these are your photos and they need to be special for you and your family.
Massage
Benefits of Prenatal Massage Include:
*emotional support and nurturing touch
*relaxation and decreased insomnia
*stress relief on weight-bearing joints, such as ankles, lower back and pelvis
*neck and back pain relief caused by muscle imbalance and weakness
*assistance in maintaining proper posture
*preparing the muscles used during childbirth
*reduced swelling in hands and feet
*lessened sciatic pain
*fewer calf cramps
*headache and sinus congestion relief
In addition to the fact that massage during pregnancy just plain feels good, there are many other benefits for the mom-to-be and her baby, too. A study conducted by Dr. Tiffany Field at the
University of Miami School of Medicine showed that massage actually reduces stress hormones
in the body.
What is prenatal massage?
Massage during pregnancy is therapeutic bodywork which focuses on the special needs of the mother-to-be as her body goes through the dramatic changes of pregnancy. It is a fast-growing field in the United States that has attracted the interest of labor and delivery nurses, nurse-midwives, childbirth educators and obstetricians. Massage therapy enhances the function of muscles and joints, improves circulation and general body tone, and relieves mental and physical fatigue.
Is Prenatal Massage For You?
Massage during pregnancy is usually safe for most mothers. I will want to know if you are having any problems or complications with your pregnancy before we begin. If you do have complications, I will need approval from your primary health care provider before proceeding with any bodywork.
Because of the tremendous physical and hormonal changes that occur in the expectant mother, I do not recommend any massage during the first trimester. In my opinion, this is the time for the mother to get comfortable with being pregnant. The second and third trimesters are wonderful times to begin prenatal massage.
I specialize in calm, soothing, relaxing massage. I do not massage so deeply that pain is ever felt. The most effective guide for determining proper pressure is open communication. I massage with the woman lying in a semi-reclining position for no more then 10 minutes. If, at any point, it becomes uncomfortable I will immediately change her position. I, then, finish the massage with the mother lying on her side and rotating when done. Many pillows are used to insure comfort throughout the entire process. I make sure that the mother is not exposed other then the limbs that I am
working on.
I use an unscented massage cream that leaves a soft, smooth feel without any residue remaining on the skin. It doesn't feel greasy nor does it stain or leave residue on your clothing.
Massage can be performed anywhere from 10 minutes to one hour, depending on how much time you have and how much discomfort you are experiencing. Once a week after the first trimester is wonderful but if that isn't possible, getting a massage once a month is a good plan that will work into your schedule and budget nicely.
In my practice, I have found that my pregnant clients appreciate their massage therapy appointments because they know relief is at hand. They look forward to their weekly appointments to ease recurring problems, such as sciatica, leg cramps, back and round ligament pain.
I hope pregnancy massage eases any discomfort you may be feeling, too. Enjoy some bodywork soon!
University of Miami School of Medicine showed that massage actually reduces stress hormones in the body.
Touch is vital to the mother's physical and emotional well-being as she adapts to her new body image. Regardless of individual circumstances, a pregnant woman's body is challenged, changed
and stressed in many ways. Massage gives special attention to the mother-to-be, which in turn nurtures the new life that grows within her.
"At the end of my pregnancy,
I was having a lot of aches
and pains in my lower back
and hips. Having a prenatal
massage was just what I
needed for relief. After my
massage, I slept better and was more comfortable walking. I really felt refreshed!"
Amy-
Belly Casts
Gifts Certificates
While making the cast, fathers often feel a new connection between themselves and the mother, and an appreciation, if not awe, of her changing body!
Even if you are uncertain about doing this kind of birth art, do it anyway. As time goes by, and your love for your baby grows, this memento will mean even more to you.
There are a ton of things you can do to decorate your cast. Some of my favorites are decopauging newborn photos on the belly, painting the babies foot prints right on the spot where he or she used to always kick you hard, or have siblings paint or draw on the cast. I have many other ideas that I can share with you too.
The actual making of the cast is simple and usually takes just over an hour to finish. I bring all of the materials to your home, either make the cast or help the husband or other family members make the cast, and then clean up before you get out of the shower. Be prepared to be in awe of looking at your belly from another perspective!
Cost of Services
Doula Services: $900
Services include: a minimum of 2 prenatal visits, attendance of entire labor and delivery, at least 2 postpartum visits, pre and postnatal nutritional support. Cost can be split in two payments.
Prenatal Massage: $50 per hour
Weekends and evenings are available.
Prenatal & Infant Photography: $95 per session
Session includes a 1-2 hour photo shoot in location of your choice and one set of proofs.
Photographs can be ordered by the sheet. $20 per sheet.
A sheet consists of one of these:
1-8x10 or
2-5x7's or
2-4x6's or
4-3.5x5's or
8-wallets
You can mix and match poses.
There will be an added $50 fee for traveling to McKinleyville and Garberville.
I can also supply you with a CD of your photos for $250, which will allow you to make as many prints and enlargements as you would like.
Pricing for Senior Portraits vary, please call for more information.
A birth announcement photo is $25 with the option to add many different shots in a fun and creative way.
Belly Casting: $40
Weekends and evening appointments are available.
The Ultimate Doula Package Deal: $1070
You will receive doula services, one photography session, one prenatal massage, and one belly cast. (If you don't want a belly cast you can substitute it for a half-hour massage).
Pregnancy/Newborn Support Group
Pregnancy/Newborn support groups are held every 1st and 3rd Thursday at 10 am. This is a free group and children are welcome to come, we have plenty of toys for them to play with! Snacks are provided.
This is a place where mommies and mommies-to-be can exchange advice, give comfort and support, get information and have a few laughs while their at it. We talk about pregnancy, hear birth stories and learn about our newborns.
Also, once a month a car seat safety officer is available to check that your car seat is installed correctly. Please call for dates and times.
Breastfeeding Support Group
Breastfeeding support group is every 2nd Tuesday at 2pm. This is also a free group. For some women, breastfeeding doesn't come naturally. It can take time and patience to teach yourself and your newborn how to nurse well. At this group you will get guidance, support and information about how to be a successful at breastfeeding.
Contact Me
If you would like more information or would like to
schedule an appointment,
please call 725-7879 or send an email.
Thank you for visiting my site!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?
Certified doulas provide emotional and physical support for the laboring woman and her family and/or postpartum care of the mother and baby. A Doula's care has been shown to improve outcomes for both moms and babies in many studies. The are part of the woman's support team, i.e. doctor/midwife, family, doula, nurses.
Doulas do not provide any kind of medical care. For instance, they would not listen to the baby's heart beat or do a vaginal exam or deliver the baby.
A midwife provides prenatal care, delivery of the baby, care of the mother postpartum and newborn care. The midwife is responsible for the safety of mother and baby. Some kinds of midwives also provide family planning, annual exams, and other kinds of well-woman gynecology.
2. I have a very supportive husband who wants to be involved in the birth. Will hiring a doula overshadow his role in the delivery?
Absolutely not! A doula's job is to mother the mother but I personally believe that the hero in the story should be the husband or partner, not the doula. In my opinion, a doula should be a witness whose job it is to gently guide the couple to the best possible birth experience. I often say that it's not my birth, I'm just an honored guest in the room. If the birthing parents would like aunts, sisters, mothers etc. to be present, (which we discuss during the pregnancy) I will keep them involved and informed to allow them to experience the joy of the journey as well.
3. What effects does the presence of a doula have on birth outcomes?
Numerous clinical studies have found that a doulas presence at birth: tends to result in shorter labors with fewer complications reduces negative feelings about ones childbirth experience reduces the need for pitocin (a labor-inducing drug), forceps or vacuum extraction reduces the requests for pain medication and epidurals, as well as the incidence of cesareans.
4. What effects does the presence of a doula have on the mother?
When a doula is present during and after childbirth, women report greater satisfaction with their birth experience, make more positive assessments of their babies, have fewer cesareans and requests for medical intervention, and less postpartum depression. They also feel more confident as a mother and have shown to have an easier time bonding with their babies.
5. What effects do the presence of doulas have on babies?
Studies have shown that babies born with doulas present tend to have shorter hospital stays with fewer admissions to special care nurseries, breast feed more easily and have more affectionate mothers in the postpartum period. Because the mother's are getting care and support during this transitional phase, the babies are less likely to develop problems after delivery.
6. Does hiring a doula mean that I don't need a doctor/midwife or nursing staff?
No. Doulas work hand-in-hand with who you choose as your care providers. Doulas are part of your support team and do not replace nurses or other medical staff. Since doulas do not perform clinical or medical tasks such as taking blood pressure or temperature, monitoring fetal heart rate, doing vaginal examinations or providing postpartum clinical care, you will have to rely on your doctor/midwife and nurses to do these for you. Doulas are there to comfort and support the mother and to enhance communication between the mother and medical professionals.
7. When should I hire a doula?
Because With Child Doula Services offers so much during pregnancy, hiring a doula as soon as you can makes a lot of sense. The least amount of visits you would get with your doula is two and the sooner you hire one the more time you have getting to know her and form a relationship. I also work with women who are trying to get pregnant by looking at their foods and making suggestions that boost fertility and enhance the likelihood of conceiving.
8. I'm due any day. Is it too late to hire a doula?
It is NEVER too late to hire a doula. A lot of women make up their mind to call on a doula when they are just days and sometimes hours away from their due date. Go with your gut instinct. If you are at all on the fence about having a doula, make the call and at least ask questions. Sometimes just that phone call can relieve some of the anxiety of the impending birth. If you decide not to have a doula and then change your mind while you're in the hospital, please tell the nurses and they will find a doula for you! Don't hesitate to ask for one!
9. Does a doula make decisions on my behalf?
A doula does not make decisions for clients or intervene in their clinical care. She provides informational and emotional support, while respecting a womans decisions. While in the hospital, a doula can explain the laboring woman's wishes (if needed) and communicate with the nurses and/or doctors to work together to provide excellent care with the best possible birth experience.
10. How long do doulas stay during the birth?
I arrive when you call, even in the wee hours of the morning, and stay with you throughout the entire labor and birth. I usually stay hours after delivery to help get you situated and comfortable, help you bond with your baby, get breastfeeding established, and of course take lots of photos of your new family!
707.725.7879 3855 Rohnerville Road, Fortuna CA 95540
With Child Doula Services
2005-2010 All rights reserved
Humboldt Doula Alliance
