Pamela Reid - Birth & Postpartum Doula

About Pamela

Hello, my name is Pamela, and I am the founder of Baby Blessings Doula & Lactation Specialist in Santa Barbara, CA. With over 30 years of experience as a pediatric nurse, along with certification as a Lactation Specialist and a DONA-trained Birth/Postpartum Doula, I have had the privilege of supporting over 160 families through childbirth and beyond. As a mother of four wonderful children and a grandmother to three precious grandbabies, I truly understand the transformative journey of parenthood. It is my personal calling to empower women to embrace their strength during this sacred and life-changing time. I believe in holding space for mothers and their families in a way that fosters safety, security, and confidence. My passion lies in providing unwavering support to mothers, babies, siblings, and partners during the postpartum period. My mission is to ensure that every family I work with feels cared for, heard, and deeply supported throughout this beautiful journey. If you are looking for a compassionate and experienced doula to guide and support you through your pregnancy and postpartum experience, I would be honored to work with you.

Birth & Postpartum Doula packages and pricing

Standard Birth Doula Package

The Standard Birth Doula Package includes: • Two Prenatal Visits: During these visits, we will discuss everything from your medical history, physical limitations, mental health, and emotional well-being. These sessions are designed to assess your needs and desires for your birth, provide you with helpful tools for labor, create your "ideal birth plan," and ensure you feel empowered and supported. We will also work together to establish your postpartum plan. • On-Call Support Starting at 37 Weeks: I will be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by phone, text, and email to answer any questions or provide support leading up to your labor. • Continuous Labor Support: Once labor begins, I will be by your side when you request my presence. I will remain with you throughout labor, offering continuous support for as long as needed. My role includes providing physical and emotional assistance, facilitating labor progress with suggestions for positions, movement, breathing, and relaxation. I will offer hands-on support, such as massage, counterpressure, aromatherapy, and rebozo, while ensuring your partner remains the primary support, if desired. • Post-Delivery Support: I will stay with you for 1-2 hours after birth to offer initial breastfeeding support, ensuring proper latch and helping to establish breastfeeding if desired. • Postpartum Visits: I offer 1-2 postpartum visits within two weeks of delivery. These visits include breastfeeding support, processing your birth experience, checking on postpartum recovery, and making any necessary referrals. • Ongoing Availability: I am available for continued support by phone and email for as long as you need me. • Back-Up Doula: In the rare event that I am unable to attend your birth, I will provide a trusted back-up Doula to ensure you have the support you need. Your journey is incredibly important, and I am here to provide support, guidance, and care throughout the entire process.

$1,950 USD · Flat rate

Delux Birth Doula Package

The Deluxe Birth Doula Package includes all the services of the standard package, along with 12 hours of daytime postpartum support at a discounted rate. This support is provided through three 4-hour visits designed to assist with your postpartum recovery and ensure a smooth transition into life with your newborn.

$2,300 USD · Flat rate

VIP Birth Doula Package

The VIP Birth Doula Package includes all the services of the standard package, along with 24 hours of overnight postpartum support at a discounted rate. This support is provided through three 8-hour overnight visits, offering you the rest and assistance you need during the crucial postpartum period.

$2,950 USD · Flat rate

Accepted insurance

Carrot CenCal Health Uniform Medical Plan Message Pamela to confirm coverage for your plan.

What to expect

Birth Doula Service Includes: • Two prenatal visits to discuss birth preferences, address any concerns, and provide education and support. • 24/7 on-call support starting at 37 weeks, available via phone, text, and email to answer any questions or offer guidance. • 1-2 postpartum visits within two weeks after birth to provide breastfeeding support and assist with postpartum recovery. Postpartum Services: • Daytime Postpartum Doula Visits to offer support with newborn care, light household tasks, and emotional guidance. • Night Postpartum Doula Visits to provide overnight care, allowing you to rest while your doula cares for your baby. Lactation Support: Available per request, on an hourly basis, to assist with breastfeeding challenges and ensure a positive nursing experience.

Reviews for Pamela Reid

5.0 3 reviews

5.0

May 30, 2024

Like most men, I probably had no idea what a doula did. After meeting with Pamela, I learned quite a bit and felt comfortable in having her be a part of our birth experience. I was able to be there for my wife emotionally and Pamela took care of everything else. She supported my wife in a way that I couldn't have. I have no idea how we could have done it without her. She was the true MVP that day. I can't thank her enough. Her experience as a nurse was super helpful. We will hire her again for our next pregnancy!

— Brad S.

5.0

May 30, 2024

When we had our daughter, upon arriving at the hospital, I was extremely anxious. As soon as Pamela joined us, I immediately felt calm and at ease. She was awesome throughout the entire process! I couldn’t have asked for more. We also hired her as our postpartum doula after our baby was born, which was a lifesaver during these first few weeks of “sleepless” nights!

— Melanie R.

5.0

May 30, 2024

I give Pamela from Baby Blessings Doula and Lactation Specialist a 5 out of 5, and if I could give her more, I would. She was a treasured asset during one of the most vulnerable times of my life. Thank you so much Pamela! I will be forever grateful for her services! Money well spent! Angelina S.

— Angelina S.

Ready to talk with Pamela?

Free to send. Pamela usually responds within a few hours.

Certifications, training, and specialties

Certification and training

Birth Doula DONA (2013)
Birth Doula DONA (2023)
Post Partum Doula DONA (2023)
Certified Lactation Specialist (2022)

Education

Bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) (1991)

Memberships and affiliations

DONA

Languages

English, German

Credentials

BSN-RN CLC

Specialties

Abnormal Bleeding Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Abuse Adolescent Care Adolescent Gynecology Advanced Maternal Age Allergies Anxiety Anxiety and Depression Asthma Attachment problems Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Babywearing Birth and Lactation Birth Assistant Birth Doula Birth Support Birth Trauma Breastfeeding Assistance and Support Breastfeeding Consultation Breastfeeding Support Building Healthy Communication Cancer Screening Cervical Dysplasia Cesarean, Episiotomy and Scar Pain Childhood Growth and Development Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Codependency Issues Dialectical Behavior Therapy Early Intervention Speech and Language Evidence-Based Care Evidence-Based Therapy Exclusive Pumping/Bottle Feeding Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy Family Medicine Freebirth General Pediatrics Gynecological Surgery Gynecology High Risk and Low Intervention Obstetrical Care High-Risk Pregnancy Home Birth Infant Care Labor Doula Lactation Consultation Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Laparoscopic Surgery Latch Issues Low Milk Supply/Over Supply Massage Mental Health Mindfulness Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery Mood Disorders Multiples Natural Birth Natural Childbirth Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Newborn Care Newborn Exam Newborn Screening Nipple and Breast Pain Overnight Newborn Care Pain Management Panic Parenting Pediatric Critical Care Medicine Pediatric Urgent Care Pelvic Pain Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Perinatal Mood Disorders Positive Thinking Postpartum Adjustment Postpartum Care Postpartum Depression Postpartum Doula Care Postpartum Life Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Potty Training Pregnancy Complications Premature Infants Prenatal Care Returning to work (pumping, breastmilk storage, etc) Screening for Cervical and Breast Cancer Self-Compassion Self-Esteem Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Testing and Treatment Sibling Preparation Support during Labor, Birth, and Postpartum Teenagers Teen Counseling Toddlers Water birth Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)

Frequently asked questions

What are the benefits of a doula?

A birth doula provides physical, emotional, and informational support to pregnant individuals and their partners throughout pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period. This comprehensive support can have a significant impact on both the birth experience and outcomes. Some of the many benefits of having a doula include: • Better Birth Outcomes: Doulas can help reduce the risk of complications for both the parent and infant, including preterm births and low birth weight. Their support contributes to a healthier, more positive experience for both. • Fewer Interventions: Research shows that doulas can reduce the need for assisted vaginal delivery and cesarean births, contributing to a more natural birth process. • Pain Relief and Stress Reduction: Doulas offer various techniques to help ease pain and stress during labor, such as breathing exercises, massage, and positioning. They can also help reduce the need for pain medications, making the experience more manageable. • Shorter Labor: Studies have found that continuous doula support during labor can reduce its length by up to 25%, helping to make the process more efficient and less exhausting. • Better Communication: Doulas help facilitate open communication between you and your healthcare team. They ensure your needs and preferences are clearly expressed and help clarify any medical terms or procedures, making sure you are well-informed and confident in your decisions. • Increased Breastfeeding Success: Doulas are trained to provide breastfeeding support, helping new parents initiate breastfeeding and overcome challenges in the early days. • Fewer Negative Experiences: Having a doula can reduce stress and anxiety during labor, leading to fewer negative emotional experiences and a more positive birth experience overall. • Lower Healthcare Costs: Some studies suggest that the presence of a doula can help reduce healthcare costs by lowering the likelihood of interventions and complications, leading to fewer medical interventions and a more efficient birth process. • Postpartum Support: Many doulas continue to support their clients for up to 8 weeks after delivery, assisting with breastfeeding, sleep schedules, and your overall recovery. Choosing a doula means choosing support that empowers you and your partner, guiding you toward a safer, more satisfying birth experience.