I’m Doris Ann McMurray, a Certified Doula through DONA International with over 30 years of experience supporting families through childbirth. My passion for helping pregnant women has guided me throughout my career, taking me to a variety of hospitals and birthing centers across North Carolina. I’ve supported a wide range of birth experiences—from unmedicated and medicated births to water births a
nd planned Cesareans. I pride myself on being flexible and supportive, not tied to one specific birth philosophy. I don’t consider myself a “granola doula,” but rather an advocate who honors and upholds your unique birth plan and preferences. I’m trained in various comfort measures including breathing techniques, movement and positioning, and tools like the birthing ball and warm showers. My goal is always the same: to help you feel empowered, safe, and supported throughout your birthing journey. In the end, what matters most is a healthy mama and a healthy baby. The word doula originates from ancient Greece, where it referred to a woman who served and supported another during childbirth. Today, a doula is a trained professional who provides continuous emotional, physical, and informational support to a mother before, during, and shortly after childbirth. A doula does not provide medical care or diagnoses. Instead, she supports the birthing person and their family, offering guidance on self-care, postpartum adjustment, lactation, and connecting families to helpful community resources. You may also hear doulas referred to as labor support specialists or birth companions. Physically: Helps with position changes, breathing, relaxation techniques, massage, and comfort tools like hot/cold packs or birthing balls. Emotionally: Offers reassurance, calm encouragement, and consistent presence throughout labor. Informationally: Provides evidence-based information about labor, coping strategies, and medical options, helping you make informed decisions. Importantly, a doula works with your birth partner, not in place of them. In fact, many partners feel more confident and involved when a doula is present to offer guidance and support. A doula’s role is to protect and nurture your birth experience. She respects your choices and will advocate for your wishes with your care team, regardless of her personal beliefs. Benefits of Doula Support
Studies since the 1980s have consistently shown that having a doula can:
Reduce the risk of cesarean by up to 50%
Decrease use of epidurals by 60%
Lower the need for Pitocin by 40%
Shorten labor by an average of 25%
Reduce the use of narcotics and forceps by up to 30%
Postpartum benefits are also significant: babies have fewer health issues, breastfeeding is more successful, and mothers are less likely to experience postpartum depression. A positive birth experience can lead to greater confidence in parenting. Choosing the Right Doula
When selecting a doula, consider the following:
Training & Certification: Is she certified? What organization trained her? Experience: How many births has she attended? Does she have experience with the type of birth you are planning? Philosophy: Does her approach align with your vision for birth? Familiarity: Is she familiar with your birth facility and care provider? Services Included:
Phone/text support
Prenatal meetings
Labor and birth support (including how long she stays after birth)
Postpartum follow-up
Backup doula (Will you meet her in advance?)
Fees and payment/reimbursement options
References from past clients
Finally, trust your instincts. Do your personalities click? Do you feel heard and respected? Do you trust her ability to support you? Finding the right doula is about more than qualifications—it’s about connection and comfort.
