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Karen Wells more doulas
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My journey as a Birth Doula began with my journey as a mother. During my first pregnancy, I had a strong desire to have a natural childbirth. I was fascinated by the fact that my body would do everything the text books were telling me it would do. I thought that reading a few books and taking a short childbirth preparation class would assure my success in a natural birth. Little did I know that becoming a mother, had more to do with a lifestyle and mindset change, than checking off a "how-to" list.
My first birth was an induction that ended in an emergency c-section. This left me, and my husband, shell-shocked and traumatized. After recovery, and much soul searching, we decided to make some drastic changes in our life and our birth plans. 18 months later, I had a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) delivery in our home surrounded by midwifes, doulas, friends and family. 18 months after that, I had a waterbirth at home, again with the help of an amazing team of professionals, friends and family. Though these births were beautiful and redemptive, they each played out in such a way that caused me to grow as a mother, and as it turned out, as a doula.
After word of all my experiences began to get out, I received calls from moms asking for support during their pregnancies and childbirths. I started attending births as a "friend" not really realizing I was working as a doula. In 2004, I finally decided this was more than random requests, and received it as a calling in life, so took a Birth Doula training course through DONA to begin my process of becoming a professional doula. This opened so many doors to support families; I have been honored to work with a large variety of couples all over the Portland/Vancouver metro area.
Some of my experience includes (but is not limited to):
VBACs
Waterbirths
Inductions
Deaf and Hearing-Impaired Families (I am fluent in ASL)
Fertility Issues and Preparation for Pregnancy
Lactation Support
Adoption and Surrogacy
Miscarriage, Grief and Birth Processing
Postpartum Depression Support
I believe that parents should have access to all possible resources during pregnancy, childbirth and throughout the life of their child. I believe, as a doula, I can help families obtain and utilize the tools provided by Midwives, Obstetricians, Acupuncturists, Naturopaths, Massage Therapists, Chiropractors, Fertility Specialists, etc. I consider my walk alongside families a success when they feel educated, equipped and empowered through their pregnancy and birth experience.
I love that as a professional doula I have the unique ability and scope of practice to truly see clients in a holistic way. I am able to serve as a bridge to the physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual sides of moms and dads as they transition and grow in parenthood.
Contact the office to request doula support:
office 503.493.7390
hello@renchildbirth.com
To contact your doula directly:
cell: 503.780.8470
email: karen@renchildbirth.com |
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Disclaimer: This site is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personal medical advice, attention, diagnosis or treatment. If you are concerned about your health or your baby's health, please consult your family's health care provider immediately.
Disclaimer: The doulas who work through Renaissance Childbirth and Postpartum Professionals, LLC are independent contractors. Renaissance Childbirth and Postpartum Professionals, LLC does not assume any liability through the actions of your independent contractor.
Doulas are non-medical professionals who support women and families in Labor and Postpartum. They are trained in the normal course of pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum care. They are not qualified to give medical advice, please use the information on this website as a general guide.
Always check with your Care Provider to be sure that you are doing what will be best for you and your baby.
PHOTO CREDIT: All professional photos provided by Debbie Baxter. Thank you Debbie! |
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