Labor support is a very important job, and one that we at HBCT do not take lightly. The person you choose to share with in this most intimate time should understand your goals and wishes and help you to achieve them. A Labor Support person, or doula, is not a replacement for the birth companion (father, husband, partner). They are simply an additional pair of hands to help in any way necessary. Sometimes that involves fetching drinks and cool washcloths and sometimes it means reminding the laboring mother that everything she's feeling is normal and safe.

Throughout history, women have surrounded themselves with other women during this intensely emotional time. Only another woman, who has herself experienced the joys of birth, can accurately understand what you're feeling at that time.

As recorded in Mothering the Mother by Klaus, Kennell and Klaus, a doula can be beneficial in several different ways:

• 50% reduction in the cesarean rate
• 25% shorter labor
• 60% reduction in epidural requests
• 40% reduction in oxytocin use
• 30% reduction in analgesia use
• 40% reduction in forceps delivery

Heather is a Certifed Professional Labor Companion trained through the HypnoBirthing Institute, as well as a student midwife. She has completed her midwifery apprenticeship as well as the Association of Texas Midwives' Midwifery Training Program. She is planning to take the NARM exam in October '07 to become a Certified Professional Midwife and a Licensed Midwife in the state of Texas.

Currently, HBCT doulas offer Labor Support Services for $950. Half the fee is due on retainer and the other half due by your 36th week of pregnancy, unless other arrangements are made. Services provided by HBCT associates are priced according to the individual Doula's practice.

Please email for a referral to a HypnoBirthing friendly doula to serve your needs.