What is a doula?

A birth doula is a trained professional who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to individuals during pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period. Their primary role is to assist parents in having a positive birth experience, regardless of the type of birth planned, whether it be at home, in a birthing center, or in a hospital.

Key responsibilities of a birth doula include:

  1. Emotional Support: Doulas offer continuous encouragement and reassurance during labor, helping to alleviate anxiety and fear.

  2. Physical Support: They assist with comfort measures such as positioning, breathing techniques, massage, and other pain relief strategies.

  3. Information and Advocacy: Doulas provide evidence-based information about labor and delivery, helping parents make informed decisions and communicate effectively with medical staff.

  4. Postpartum Support: Some doulas also offer support after delivery, assisting with newborn care, breastfeeding, and adjusting to life with a new baby.

Doulas do not perform medical tasks or deliver babies, but work alongside midwives, obstetricians, and other healthcare providers to ensure the parents receive comprehensive care. Their focus on the holistic experience of childbirth can positively impact maternal satisfaction and outcomes.

As a doula, I’m available for Birth, Bereavement (Infant Loss) Postpartum, and Prenatal and Postpartum Education Classes.

Let’s connect - in-person, phone, or Zoom consultations, meetings, and training.

I serve the Raleigh/Fayetteville, Johnston County area of North Carolina.

I offer the following services in person and virtually…

  • Emotional Support During and After Pregnancy

  • Help to Create a Birth Plan

  • Help to Create a Postpartum Plan

  • Lactation Helper

  • Birth Education

  • Postpartum Education

  • Tens Unit use during Labor

Hello, I’m Amanda Smith! Dona Certified Birth Doula

I have had a passion for working with children since I was young. This started at home, and then I started helping neighbors out while they did tasks around the house.

I was blessed to attend my first birth at 18 and loved being a support for my friend. At that time in life, I didn’t know what a doula was or even that this was a career. After that experience, I was blessed to attend several births including c-sections, and have helped several people with lactation right after birth. No matter what stage of pregnancy, I am a safe space for you.

From 2018-2023 I had the opportunity to nurture and love babies from 0 to 24m in foster care. I brought several babies home from the hospital and was blessed to help them through their first few months, showing them what it means to be heard, supported, and loved.

I am passionate about supporting families during the pre and post-birth processes, regardless of the outcome. I feel called to this line of work and am excited to connect with you.

I am excited to serve Johnston County and surrounding cities with education and support during one of the biggest experiences of your life.