Birth Doula
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Mentor
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Educator
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Mother
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Student Midwife
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Lactation Support
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Trainer
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Birth Doula • Mentor • Educator • Mother • Student Midwife • Lactation Support • Trainer •
I’m Merrie,
Wife, mom of four, and deeply rooted in Arvada, Colorado. When I'm not in the birth room, you'll find me soaking up precious moments at home with my little tribe; I'm all about cooking up a storm, horseback riding, gardening, and chasing the best hot springs around the globe! But let me tell you, my heart beats for childbirth.
I'm #5 of seven children. As a kid, being obsessed with birth, I would always ask my mom's friends about their birth stories.
Originally from Littleton, Colorado, my love for travel led me to France as an exchange student in high school and then to Venezuela to dive into Spanish and South American adventures. I taught English in China and studied Mandarin in Taiwan, another chapter of growth and discovery where I continued my studies and majored in Mandarin Chinese in college.
I trained at The Farm Midwifery Center with Ina May Gaskin and Pamela Hunt and have worked as a student midwife in a free-standing birth center. I have also trained through Birthing From Within in their doula and childbirth education.
For me, the birth room is pure magic—a space where our bodies, babies, and families come together to create something truly precious.
I've personally given birth at home, in a hospital, and in birth center settings, including being transferred mid-labor. I get the roller coaster of emotions and the physical toll that labor brings. I'm passionate about helping women find their center, trust the process, and surrender to the incredible birth journey.
Peace on earth begins at birth. I consider it an honor to walk alongside families on this extraordinary journey.
QUALIFICATIONS
Owner and Manager of Intuitive Birth Doula Agency
Student Midwife
Doula Trainer at Intuitive Birth
Certified Midwife Assistant from The Farm Midwifery Center, trained by Ina May, Pamela Hunt, and other Farm Midwives
Trained in Birthing From Within Doula and Childbirth Education
Neonatal Resuscitation Certified (NRP)
Experience working as a student midwife in a free-standing birth center
Birth Doula since 2007
CPR certified
Previous board member and educator of Birth Matters Virginia
Breastfeeding instructor with extensive experience
Check out my Instagram for updates!
Unlock your confidence in childbirth with us.
Intuitive Birth | Childbirth Education — $299
Gain the knowledge and confidence to navigate any birthing scenario in a hospital, home, or birth center. Trust your body and embrace parenthood with ease.* Includes Nursing & Newborn course.
Nursing & Newborn Care — $99
This class is for parents who prefer nursing and newborn care education without the entire childbirth course. Learn to nurse and care for your newborn with ease and confidence.
Ways We Support You.
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Doula Care
From pregnancy to postpartum, our compassionate team supports you every step with guidance and physical care, like massage therapists for labor.
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Childbirth Education
Stand out in childbirth preparation. Master advanced labor techniques, effective pain management, and rapid postpartum recovery strategies.
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Nursing & Newborn
Build your skills and confidence in newborn care essentials, including breastfeeding, comforting techniques, and nighttime routines. Maximize your sleep!
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Doula Training
Comprehensive training programs for those aspiring to become knowledgeable and skilled birth workers, offering mentorship and hands-on experience.
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A professionally trained and experienced labor companion, a doula offers continuous mental, emotional, and physical support before, during, and after labor. They assist and support the mother and her partner achieve their birthing goals. Consider them akin to a specialized massage therapist for women in labor, a trusted birth advisor, and a compassionate therapist all rolled into one!
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Giving birth can be stressful and unpredictable, especially for first-time mothers. Having a doula by your side is like having your best friend, an expert in birth, ensuring you feel comfortable and supported throughout the process.Here are some compelling statistics: Births attended by doulas reduce the risk of Cesarean section by 50%, shorten labor duration by 25%, decrease the use of pitocin by 40%, lower epidural requests by 60%, and reduce forceps or vacuum deliveries by 40%. Women supported by doulas also experience lower rates of postpartum depression, report higher satisfaction with their birth experiences, find the transition into motherhood smoother, and are more successful at breastfeeding.
Doulas provide support once active labor begins, helping parents recognize the right time to go to the hospital. This guidance is precious for first-time parents needing advice on when to seek medical assistance. -
Absolutely not! A doula doesn't replace the birth partner; instead, they complement each other. Doulas offer invaluable support to partners by guiding them on how to assist the mother best and providing them with opportunities to rest and recharge. Working closely with the birth partner, doulas leverage their training and expertise to actively empower partners to participate in the labor and birth process. After all, it takes teamwork to ensure a mother's comfort and well-being during labor!
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Regardless of the circumstances leading up to the birth, a doula is steadfast in providing unwavering support to parents. Even in planned or unplanned situations requiring a trip to the Operating Room, doulas are often permitted to accompany parents. And don't fret—while we're there, we'll capture those priceless moments of meeting your baby, ensuring you have beautiful memories to cherish forever!
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No, doulas are there to support parents in achieving their birthing preferences, regardless of whether they desire a medicated or unmedicated birth or whether they have an at-home or in-hospital setting.
Follow Us On Instagram! @Intuitivebirthdoulas
