Birth Doula Support for Labor and Delivery
A birth doula gives you steady comfort and support before and during labor. Marcelline David is a certified labor and birth doula in Brooklyn, and she supports births at hospitals, birth centers and homes.
What does a birth doula do?
A birth doula is your calm, trained companion during labor. She helps with comfort, for example breathing, positions, massage and counter-pressure. She also helps you understand what is happening, so you can ask good questions and make your own choices.
In addition, she supports your partner, because partners often feel unsure in labor. So we show them how to help, so you both feel more confident.
Support before labor begins
Support starts during pregnancy. To begin with, we meet to learn your hopes, fears and birth preferences. Then we talk through what labor can look like and how to cope.
- Prenatal visits to plan and prepare.
- Help writing your birth preferences.
- Comfort techniques you can practice before labor.
- Phone and text support as your due date nears.
- Also, a plan for when to call your provider.
How a birth doula helps during labor and birth
When labor begins, we stay in touch and then join you. During labor, we offer comfort, encouragement and practical help. Afterward, we help you settle in, and we often help with the first feed.
Of course, a birth doula does not replace your doctor or midwife. Instead, we work with your care team. You can also read more about labor on ACOG patient resources.
Support after a hard birth
Sometimes birth does not go as planned. When that happens, we stay by your side. Later, we can talk through your birth story with you. If you then want ongoing help, our postpartum care picks up right where labor support ends.
Where we support births
We also serve families in Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan and the rest of New York City, as well as New Jersey, Connecticut and Upstate New York. For births outside New York City, please ask early so we can plan travel. To learn more, visit our service areas page.
Other ways we can help
Common questions about our birth doula support
When should I book birth support?
Many families book during the second trimester. However, you can reach out at any point in pregnancy. Earlier booking gives more time to prepare together.
Do you support hospital births?
Yes, we support births at hospitals, birth centers and at home. Because hospital rules can change, please check yours too.
Will a doula replace my partner?
No. Instead, we support your partner and show them simple ways to help you.
Do you support cesarean births?
Yes. We can help you prepare, support you where hospital rules allow, and help with recovery afterward.
How do I book?
When you are ready, call 347-356-4691, use the chat or send a booking request with your due date.
Let’s talk about your family
When you are ready, call 347-356-4691 or send a message so we can help.