Sessions:  

The Doula Effect:  How and Why Doulas Help Mothers Have Shorter Labors, Less Pain, and More Satisfying Births

Monday, 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

It is widely known that continuous doula care during birth shortens labor, with mothers experiencing less pain, having less interventions and greater birth satisfaction.  What is unknown is why this “doula effect” exists and why it has not been imitated in research on midwives or nurses.  In this informative, research based session, Gilliland presents her original thesis and dissertation research using the application of attachment theory to explain the “doula effect”.  After hearing this presentation, Marshall Klaus, MD, one of DONA International’s founders, stated that it offered the best explanation for why doulas influence birth outcomes. 

Let’s Stop Trying to Turn Men into Women -

Meeting the Real Needs of Pregnant and Laboring Fathers

Monday, 10:50 a.m. to 12:50 p.m.

In her new approach to understanding male behavior and needs during labor, Gilliland utilizes well respected cutting edge research to increase the effectiveness of the doula’s role.  Participants can expect to comprehend male behavior more deeply by confronting their cultural assumptions, and bringing together their own experience with new knowledge.  Innovative teaching methods assist learners to integrate new knowledge and apply it swiftly and with confidence in their individual practices. 

Advanced Positioning Strategies

Monday, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. OR Sunday, 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

In this session, participants learn in more depth about pelvic positioning with several different applications.  First, we will concentrate on using positioning and stretching during pregnancy to alleviate some common discomforts of late pregnancy.   Second, we review and give new information about positions during pregnancy and labor that enhance fetal descent.  Third, we cover strategies to use during pregnancy and labor to prevent and correct fetal malpositioning (including occupit posterior presentations).  All strategies are within the DONA International Doula scope of practice.  This session involves learning "hands on" skills one-on-one from the instructor so registration is limited to 14 people.

Click here to register for this workshop in Austin, Texas

Location: Birthwise Birth Center/East-West Family Health, 1709 Rio Grande, Austin, Texas 78701  (their website)

Questions regarding the facility, location, or parking, please email or call Birthwise Birth Center at 512-374-9592. 

CEUs:  This program has been approved for 6 Continuing Education Units by DONA International.  Many birth organizations accept DONA ceu’s, please check with your own organization for details. 

Tuition:  Planner's rates (before June 1):

Cost for all three sessions is $125.00. 

Cost for Advanced Positioning Strategies only is $45.00.

Cost for The Doula Effect and Father/Men only sessions is $85.00.

Procrastinator's rates (June 1-June 11):

Cost for all three sessions is $135.00. 

Cost for Advanced Positioning Strategies only is $50.00.

Cost for The Doula Effect and Father/Men only sessions is

$90.00.

Note:  At the door registration needs to be paid for in cash or money order, if space is still available. 

Cancellation Policy:  In case you are unable to attend at the last minute, you have two options.  One, you may substitute another qualified person in your place.  One of you will need to notify me via email or phone with your name and their name.  Two, you may choose to receive a refund for 80% of your paid registration. If there is a waiting list and someone else is able to take your place, you would receive a full refund. Refunds are made by check through U.S. mail.

Waiting List:  Sessions can fill quickly.  If you are on a waiting list and we are not able to accommodate you, you will receive a full refund. 

Click here to register for this workshop in Austin, Texas