Who we are

We are a guild-like association of doulas who focus on the practical needs of mothers, babies and families immediately after birth through approximately 1 year. As independent care providers who are hired directly by parents, we have been meeting monthly for inspiration, support, peer consulting and continuing education since 2001.

Our passion is to provide the most current, evidence-based postpartum care. Coming from a rich variety of backgrounds and experience each Doula offers different combinations of care services including breastfeeding education and support, newborn care practices, nutritional information, bodywork and postpartum recovery plans. We are available either days or nights for families with newborn singletons, twins and triplets.

Mutual respect and appreciation for our community and concern for the well being of the families we serve characterize our commitment. It is our intention to offer a high level of integrity and excellence. In order to maintain an ethical and responsible standard we stay connected with each other in an on-line information group as well as in our monthly meetings where we share articles on the latest research, techniques, guidelines and practices. We also invite speakers to address our group and periodically and individually attend workshops on lactation, massage, infant sleeping and infant psychology.

Each Doula practices independently within her own contract description, maintains independent references and certifications and pays her own taxes. Many Doulas also have additional complimentary talents and certifications. You will find among our group Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) and Educators, Cranialsacral practitioners, Birth Doulas, Certified Massage Therapists (CMT), Sleep Consultants, Reiki Practitioners and Infant and Newborn Massage Educators.

We invite you to explore our website, and make contact with our members so that you may find the perfect support for your postpartum time.

We look forward to serving you.

Meet our doulas

What is a postpartum doula?

Doula is a Greek word which simply means “a woman care-giver of another woman.”  In ancient times, doulas were an essential part of a woman’s birthing experience and remained with her from the beginning of labor until she integrated her birth experience into her daily life.  Today, the Birth Doula supports the family during the labor and birth while the Postpartum Doula supports the entire family during the postpartum period which typically lasts three to six months.

The Postpartum Doula:

  • helps with physical and emotional recovery from birth;
  • offers information on infant feeding, including breast feeding support;
  • teaches newborn soothing techniques;
  • helps identify normal newborn behavior, including feeding, sleeping and waking patterns;
  • assists with newborn care;
  • can provide practical assistance such as preparing meals, running errands, nursery organization and performing light household tasks;
  • teaches coping skills and encourages parents’ self-care;
  • makes appropriate referrals when necessary.

Meet our doulas

Training
  • Newborn Care Specialist
Specialities
Twins/multiples, LGBTQAI+ support, Preemies, Nutritional support, Sleep support, Virtual support
Areas served
East Bay, San Francisco, Peninsula
Training
  • Reiki Practitioner
  • Newborn Care Specialist
Specialities
Twins/multiples, Sleep support, Preemies, Nutritional support, LGBTQAI+ support, Virtual support
Areas served
East Bay, San Francisco, Marin

Elli Arlt

Days & nights
Training
  • Newborn Care Specialist
Specialities
Twins/multiples, Sleep support, LGBTQAI+ support, Virtual support
Areas served
East Bay, South Bay, San Francisco
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Training
  • Certified Massage Therapist
  • Newborn Care Specialist
  • Birth Doula
Specialities
Twins/multiples, Sleep support, Preemies, Nutritional support, LGBTQAI+ support, Virtual support
Areas served
East Bay
Training
  • Lactation Educator
Specialities
Twins/multiples, Sleep support, Nutritional support, Preemies, LGBTQAI+ support, Virtual support
Areas served
East Bay

Denise Macko

Days & nights
Training
  • Sleep Consultant
  • Lactation Educator
Specialities
Twins/multiples, Sleep support, Preemies, Nutritional support, Virtual support
Areas served
San Francisco, East Bay, Marin
Training
  • Lactation Educator
  • Certified Massage Therapist
  • Newborn Care Specialist
  • Birth Doula
Specialities
Twins/multiples, Sleep support, Preemies, Nutritional support, LGBTQAI+ support
Areas served
East Bay, South Bay, San Francisco, Peninsula, Monterey Bay Area, Marin

Get in Touch

Please feel free to be in touch with any doula individually, or to fill out our form below and we’ll reach out within 24 hours.

Days/nights
Location
San Francisco Bay Area