My name is Sarah Stanford, and I am a DONA certified birth doula. On this page you will find answers to frequently asked questions, comments from some of my past clients, and a list of helpful books, websites, and resources, among other things.

You'll notice that Embrace Birth Doula Services is a division of the registered non-profit charity, Northumberland Youth For Christ based in Cobourg, Ontario, Canada. I offer my services as a doula to young women who fall within our mandate here at YFC, however I also serve the community at large.

Although I most frequently work in Cobourg and the surrounding area served by the Northumberland Hills Hospital, I have also assisted at births in the Quinte Health Care Belleville General Hospital and the Peterborough Regional Health Centre, and will soon be supporting women at Trenton Memorial Hospital.

This page is currently under construction so I encourage you to check back again later to see what has been added, or to contact me directly for more information. I can be reached by e-mail at <sarah@nyfc.org>, or by phone at (905) 375 5618.

My Philosophy of Birth

I believe that women are strong, that birth is natural and normal, and that when a mother receives the support she feels she needs, she is fully capable of giving birth without undue intervention. I am thankful that we live in an area of Canada where women have access to a full range of maternity services. I also believe that when it comes to decisions around labour and birth, the right decision for you is the decision you are most comfortable with.

Having a baby is LIFE-CHANGING. It is exciting, and powerful, and sometimes it is really hard.

A doula can help!