ROSE BIRTH & WELLNESS WELCOMES YOU
Serving the Central Coast of California
"Birth matters, mother the mother, empower women"
A BIT ABOUT EMILY
My name is Emily Cracknell and I am an experienced doula with expertise in hypnobirthing, babywearing, postpartum care, birth rights, and more. I've lived in San Luis Obispo almost my whole life and am so blessed to be able to give back to the community that I grew up in. I believe that when mothers are supported, their families thrive, and in result of that her community thrives too. I am passionate about holding space for mothers and families during this sacred time of their lives, and could not be more overjoyed to come to know every family I work with.
As a Birth and Postpartum Doula my goal is to give you and your family the attention and knowledge you need to make an informed plan about your pregnancy, birth, and 4th trimester. I am here to support, encourage, and celebrate you!
FAQ
What You Need to Know
WHAT DOES A BIRTH DOULA DO?
"A trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a mother before, during and after childbirth to help her achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible."
-DONA
Your birth bestie! A birth doula educates with local and trustworthy resources, guides you through childbirth education, helps you create a birth preferences plan, and is available 24/7 for your questions, concerns, and needs. During labor, we use physical support like counter pressure, setting up a relaxing environment, and providing comfort measures. There to celebrate and encourage you, a birth doula will cheer you on, assure you of your power and ability, and be a shoulder to lean on. A birth doula does not take the place of a partner, but helps them to be the best support person they can be for you!
HOW DOES A BIRTH DOULA BENEFIT ME?
Having a doula can increase the chance of spontaneous vaginal birth, reduce the use of forceps and a vacuum as well as other medical interventions and medications, and increase the likelihood of being at peace with the birth you have. Additionally, there is a 50% decrease in cesarean, 60% decrease in epidural requests, 40% decrease in oxytocin use and a 25% decrease in labor length. Birth is such a sacred and intimate time and shouldn't be interrupted with *unnecessary* medical intervention or disruption. A doula will give you encouragement and with actions of physical, informational, and emotional support can allow you to sink into the positive feelings of your labor and birth. Many mamas I work with give feedback that their partner was so relieved to have the presence of a doula, and found doula support to be incredibly beneficial to their experience of the birth.
WHY HIRE A BIRTH DOULA?
Regardless of birthing experience, hiring a doula allows you to create a labor space unique to your own preferences and comfort. A doula will build a trusting relationship with you and advocate for the birth plan you desire to follow, on your terms.
WHAT DOES SUPPORT FROM A BIRTH DOULA LOOK LIKE?
"Physical support from a doula includes the use of massage, pressure, and soothing touch. Doulas create a calm environment, assist with water therapy, and help keep you nourished with ice chips, food, and drinks.
Emotional support from doulas helps people feel a sense of pride and empowerment after the birth. Examples of emotional support include encouragement and praise, helping you see your situation more positively, keeping you company, showing that they care for you, and helping you debrief after the birth.
Doulas can also support you with information during pregnancy and birth. For example, they can guide you and your partner through labor and suggest techniques like breathing, relaxation, movement, and changing positions. Doulas help you find evidence-based information about your options, and they can help explain medical procedures.
As far as advocacy goes, most doulas will not speak on your behalf. However, doulas should support you in your right to make decisions about your body and your baby. They will also use advocacy techniques such as encouraging you to ask questions and speak up for what you want. Doulas can also enhance communication between parents and providers."
WHAT DOES A POSTPARTUM DOULA DO?
During your sacred window of the fourth trimester, a postpartum doula will resource you with a village of support people & resources. We can be booked prenatally or postpartum and help with newborn tips/tricks, PMADS, home "refreshes", and caring for your little one so you can receive all the rest and nourishment you deserve. Customized to your needs and desires, visits may include cooking/meal prep, emotional support, sibling care, and so much more.
HOW DOES A POSTPARTUM DOULA BENEFIT ME?
Postpartum doulas significantly reduce the risk of experiencing Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders, and are trained and equipt to help comfort, educate, and support you when you do experience those PMADs. PP doulas help establish and maintain succesful breastfeeding, give newborn care tips/tricks, and help with nutrition education specific to the postpartum period. We also can care for you baby so you can nap, shower, eat, and rest & rejuvinate yourself however you like! Parents who hire postpartum doulas speak of having more peace & feelings of support in their fourth trimester, and less stress and feelings of loneliness.
WHAT DOES SUPPORT FROM A POSTPARTUM DOULA LOOK LIKE?
Light housekeeping, night nannying, sibling care/nannying, cooking/meal prep and organizing meal trains, newborn care, ceremonial baths, foot baths, organizing self care, breastfeeding support, and whatever else you are craving during this special time.
