01844 290384
07796 627312
eleanorrfowler@aol.com
www.birth-doula.co.uk

My Name is Eleanor Fowler, (most people call me Els) I was born in 1974 and married Jim in 1999.  We have 3 children, Emily, Thomas and Dominic (Born in 2000, 2002, and 2005).

I spent the 1st 14 years of my working life, until 2008 in the recruitment industry.  I believe this has developed my natural ability to listen to what people want and then to support them to try and achieve it………very much like a Doula.

I first heard the word Doula, from my friend who lives in Greece and had one at the birth of her 1st child.  This is actually where the word originated from, meaning ‘slave’, but I don’t think that conveys the full role of the modern day Doula.

Philosophy and services offered
I believe that the most important thing for a pregnant and labouring woman, and her partner, is to be treated with empathy, kindness and respect.  This means really listening to the woman and taking on board her wishes, reassuring her all the way so that her confidence in herself will grow, so that whatever type of birth she will have in the end, she will have a positive experience and memory of it.

I do believe Natural Birth is what a woman’s body is capable of, but also recognise you may be fearful of the birth and questioning of your ability to cope.  I aim to provide the continuous physical, emotional and practical support before, during and after childbirth to ensure you will have the best possible birth experience for you.

From my own experience, I know how different types of treatment can make a huge difference to the woman's perception of her labour, which will stay with her for years.

As a recognised birth doula, I will provide 2 antenatal visits for you to talk about your birth plan, the physiology of birth, what you want for you and your baby and discussion on issues such as pain relief, Vitamin K, positions for labour and much more.  I tailor the support I give precisely to my client’s needs and wishes, in a non-judgemental approach working towards your special day.

I will also be there on the phone 24/7 to help with any worries that you might come across, beginning 2 weeks before your due date and up until your new arrival makes their entrance.  Once your labour begins and I come to you (usually at your home, before you're ready to go in to the hospital).  I remain with you during the birth (however long or short) and afterwards until you are settled and comfortable for me to leave.  You may find it helpful for me to stay while you have a shower or bath and have fed the baby for the first time.  I will also be there to reassure your partner they are doing everything right!

My local hospitals are Stoke Mandeville, The John Radcliffe, Oxford, High Wycombe and Watford General, and there are many birthing centres within Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire I will go to, and will consider travelling anywhere.

As a post natal doula, I offer post natal support, from 4hrs a day, 2-3 times a week, for between 4 to 8 weeks after the birth.  (flexible to suit)  I will be there to help the transition into parenthood to help with jobs around the house, helping parents get that much needed rest.  Anything from looking after siblings so mum can get a sleep, helping establish feeding routines (breast or bottle) do light housework, cooking, shopping, ironing, even walk the dog!

I am a great listener for 'baby blues' days - having been through more than baby blues myself recognise having someone to talk to can make everything seem more manageable.

I live near Aylesbury and will provide support to a wide area including Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire.

I am a member of Doula UK and Nurturing Birth, I am fully insured and have an up-to-date enhanced CRB check.  I also have a list of clients who are more than happy to act as reference for me and share their ‘Doula’ experience.

I have experience in Home Birth, Hospital and Birthing Centre Births, Water births, VBAC, C – section.

I use homeopathy regularly, and have 'in labour' reflexology knowledge (although not formally qualified in either) I have attended a hypno-birthing course and will support you in this if desired.