Holistic support

during pregnancy,
Birth & Postpartum

About me

Hi, nice that you found me!

My name is Michaela, I was born in Lienz (East Tyrol) in 1989 and have been living in the south of Styria with my husband and our two sons (born in 2018 and 2022) since 2019. Love brought me to Graz in 2010 and I quickly realized that I had found my new home in Styria.

I am chaotic and structured at the same time, eloquent, open-hearted, sensitive, communicative, sometimes a bit loud, reflective, spontaneous, cheerful and optimistic.

I love warm temperatures, traveling, forest walks, shoes, yoga, bouquets of flowers, the starry sky, gemstones, the sea, spirituality, massages, jewelry, our terrace, nature, inspiring films, deep conversations, true connections

and chocolate.

career

Before I became a mother, I worked as a social worker and elementary school teacher and headteacher. The births of my two sons, who couldn't have been more different, fundamentally changed my life. They completely reshaped my view of birth, the female body and the importance of dealing with these topics mindfully.

These experiences, which have touched me deeply both personally and professionally, have awakened an unmistakable call in me: I want to pass on my insights and knowledge in order to support women and their families in the special phases of pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. As a doula, I accompany you on your very personal path and support you in experiencing birth as a powerful, conscious experience.

I look forward to getting to know you and being there for you during this unique time!

Über mich

Doula?

What is a Doula &
why is your support so valuable?

Definition & Studies

my activities

As a doula, I accompany women and their families on a mental and emotional level during the sensitive phases of pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period - you can read what this might look like under "Why a doula?". With my activities, I complement the medical field of midwives and gynecologists.

In addition to individual pregnancy, birth and postpartum support, I also offer yoga courses, courses to prepare for parenthood, sibling courses, parent-baby cafes, pregnancy meetings as well as advice and support for the new family constellation.

definition

The word "doula" comes from ancient Greek and literally means "servant" or "servant of the woman". Today, the term describes a sensitive companion who promotes the well-being and self-determination of the mother with emotional and practical support.

Research & Studies

Numerous scientific studies prove the positive effects of doula support during birth. Here is an overview of the most important findings:

Reducing cesarean section and intervention rates: Continuous support from a doula can reduce the likelihood of cesarean sections and other medical interventions.
Shortening the duration of labor: Women with doula support often experience shorter labors.
Less need for pain medication: The presence of a doula can reduce the use of pain medication.
Greater satisfaction: Women report increased satisfaction with their birth experience when they were accompanied by a doula.
Promoting breastfeeding: Support from a doula can lead to higher and longer breastfeeding rates.
Reduction in postpartum depression symptoms: Women with doula support are less likely to show signs of postpartum depression.

“If doula were a drug, it would be negligent not to administer it,” explains John H. Kennell, an American pediatrician and pioneer in obstetric research.

Sources: Doulas in Austria , Doula Magazine, Doula Academy, DHZ Online, welt.de , Thieme E-Journals

Why a doula?

A doula is a compassionate contact person who provides practical help and emotional support – individually tailored to the wishes of the family.

It offers mental, emotional and practical help, support and guidance, including:

Listening, discussing fears and building confidence in the birth, preparatory discussions about birth wishes and options, explanations about birth processes, relaxation techniques, breathing exercises and dealing with contractions, as well as positions or movements that facilitate birth. The doula remains present throughout the birth, ensures calm and conveys security. She supports the father-to-be in being the best birth partner for the mother-to-be and in perceiving himself as supportive and helpful. She also offers assistance in communicating with the medical staff.

It helps with uncertainties when dealing with the baby, when breastfeeding the baby, provides tips for comfortable breastfeeding positions, and supports you in everyday life such as cooking or light housework.

These are just examples of the different activities and support a doula can provide.