Erin Luben, MPH, CD(DONA)

Every woman and family will need something slightly different from their birth doula.  I try my best to be as flexible as possible to meet your needs for information, education and support.

1st Meeting

I like to meet with you and your partner the first time for about an hour, so that I can get a good idea of the kind of birth you would like to have, and you can get to know me a little bit as well.  

Additional Meetings

Depending on your needs & interest, I am available to provide informal,  individualized education.  I am happy to spend time with you helping you develop your birth plan, practicing pain management techniques or talking about breastfeeding.

Labor & Birth Support

From 38-42 weeks, I am "on-call" for you.  I am available 24/7.  In the unlikely event that I am unavailable, I will arrange a back-up doula for you.  I will be with you during as much of your labor as you would like, and will stay with you through your birth.

 Postpartum Support

 I will stay with you after your baby is born to help you to establish breastfeeding and to make sure you are settled.  I follow up with a home visit about a week later to provide support, referrals and to process your birth experience with you.

 Hypnosis

I am a  Certified Hypno-Doula (through HypnoBabies).  If you are interested in using hypnosis during your birth time or have completed a training such as  Hypnobirthing or HypnoBabies, please let me know.

TENS: Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation

I am certified by DONA in the use of TENS for back pain during labor.  I bring my own unit to births, but do require that you get consent from your health care provider before I can use it. 

TENS is a set of electrodes which are placed on your back and emit an electrical signal which stimulates your neurons through the skin.  The sensation it provides is like a tingling.  You are the one to control the amount of signal that you need.  Research has shown that it is very effective in alleviating back pain during labor.

Reiki

 I am a certified Reiki I & II practitioner.  Reiki is a Japanese stress reduction and relaxation therapy that can be used to facilitate rest and relaxation before, during or after birth.  Please ask if you are interested in hearing more.