About

Shalom, Salaam, Peace and Welcome.

Hello, my name is Erika (Batyah) Davis and I'm a full spectrum, holistic doula.

Doula (duːlə) also known as a labor coach is a nonmedical person who assists a woman before, during, or after childbirth, as well as her partner and/or family by providing information, physical assistance, and emotional support. The provision of continuous support during labor by doulas (as well as nurses, family, or friends) is associated with improved maternal and fetal health and a variety of other benefits.

Kavanah-(also pronounced /kaˈvonə/ by some Ashkenazi Jews) (כונה; in Biblical Hebrew Kawanah), plural Kavanot, (Intention or "direction of the heart") is the mindset often described as necessary for Jewish rituals.

I chose the name "Kavanah" for my doula practice because I believe that intention or direction of the heart is not just a necessity for Jewish rituals, but also for the ritual of childbirth, a truly spiritual experience. I believe the birth and the birthing process should be women-centered and an uplifting, sacred and holy time and space shared by the birthing woman, her partner and/or people who are integral to her life and the life of her baby. I believe that birth is and can be a spiritual, sensual, loving process.

As a Jewish woman, I am aware and mindful of the halacha (laws) surrounding birth, the mother and her husband and I serve as a comforting hand to a woman in the birthing process.

As a lesbian, I am aware and mindful of gender identity and expression and intend to treat every family uniquely and with respect and support.

As a doula, my job is to guide you through the birth process holding your intentions in mind. I am the witness to your birth and my sole responsibility is to fully support you through the birthing process.

Studies have shown that women who are cared for during labor by a birth doula are:


  • 26% less likely to give birth by cesarean section.
  • 41% less likely to give birth with vacuum extractor or forceps.
  • less likely to need for pitocin.
  • less likely to request pain medication and epidurals.
  • more likely to have shorter labors with fewer complications.
  • less likely to report negative feelings about their childbirth experience.


Long term benefits of labor support include:

  • Improved breastfeeding
  • Decreased postpartum depression
  • Better Mother-Infant Interaction


I encourage you to explore my website as well as the websites of other doulas. As much as I would love to be your doula, I believe there should be a connection between a doula and her clients, so shop around! If you find your way back to me, I'd love to talk with you further about being your doula.

Blessings of love and light,

Erika


Erykah Badu | International Spokesperson | ICTC - Video One from erykah badu on Vimeo.