S.T.E.L.A.R. Beginnings

Our mission is to improve Maternal and Infant Health with one mother and infant at a time with education and support.

S.T.E.L.A.R. stands for Steward of Traditions, Education, Lifestyle, Advocate, and Rebirth. When thinking about birth and what it entails, one thing that sticks is, that this moment will never be forgotten.

S.T.E.L.A.R. Beginnings aims to support mothers and their families have a positive and successful birth experience. By supporting and providing information to mothers based on their desire and Labor and Delivery Plan. We will work with the birthing person to have a successful and positive birthing process.

In addition to Doula services, S.T.E.L.A.R. Beginnings also provides Public Health Consulting, Maternal and Infant Health Education and Grant Writing. Education and advocacy will lead to creating a safe and healthy environment for mothers and babies to thrive, survive and flourish.

One Step, One Mother, One Infant at a Time

  • Founder/CEO

    Hello, I am originally from Habana, Cuba, but somewhere along the way ended up in Kingston, Jamaica. Over time, my education and family ended up in Florida. My field of study and passion is Maternal and Infant Health. I came to Tallahassee and graduated twice from Florida A&M University, and currently pursuing a Doctorate in Public Health focused on Maternal and Infant Health. In 2022, I took a leap of faith and completed the Doula Workshop Training from Capital City Doula. I am proud to say I reside in Tallahassee with my beautiful family. I hope to continue to service the community and help all mothers feel comfortable and confident with their birth process.

    Certification:

    1. Birth Doula

    2. Childbirth Education

    3. Breast Feeding Education

    4. Diabetes Prevention Program Lifestyle Change Couch

    5. First Aid/CPR/AED

    6. Youth Mental Health

SOME FACTS ON WHY YOU SHOULD HIRE A DOULA!

  • 50% Reduction in Cesarean rate

  • 25% Shorter Labor

  • 60% Reduction in Epidural Requests

  • 40% Reduction in Pitocin use

  • 30% Reduction in forceps delivery

  • Can refer to get help with Postpartum Depression Educate on Childbirth

  • Doulas teach and assist to empower you to advocate for yourself

  • Teach relaxation techniques, assist with pain-relief laboring positions, and promote mindfulness 


Doula’s DO NOT: Perform clinical services: such as blood pressure, fetal heart check, vaginal exams, delivering the baby or make decisions for you.
 
DOULAS MAKE A DIFFERENCE! YOUR BIRTH EXPERIENCE MATTERS!

If you have insurance, please go to The Doula Network and fill out their form to be matched with Carmen Dennis as your Doula. Your referral would be TDN Doula, Carmen Dennis.

If you need a Doula but need financial assistance, please complete our scholarship. We will assess all submissions and let you know if you qualify within 14 days.

What is the benefit of having a doula?

A doula is a trained and experienced professional who provides emotional, physical, and informational support to individuals and couples before, during, and after childbirth. The benefits of having a doula can be significant and include:

  1. Emotional support: Doulas offer continuous emotional support, providing reassurance, comfort, and encouragement throughout labor and childbirth. They can help reduce anxiety and fear, which can contribute to a more positive birth experience.

  2. Physical support: Doulas can assist with comfort measures such as positioning, massage, and relaxation techniques to help manage pain and discomfort during labor. They can also suggest breathing exercises and other strategies to cope with contractions.

  3. Information and education: Doulas provide evidence-based information and guidance about the childbirth process, medical interventions, and various birthing options. They can help individuals make informed decisions about their care and advocate for their preferences.

  4. Communication and advocacy: Doulas can communicate with healthcare providers on behalf of the birthing person, ensuring that their wishes and preferences are respected. They can help bridge the gap between the medical team and the family.

  5. Reduced intervention rates: Research has shown that having a doula present during labor can lead to lower rates of medical interventions, such as cesarean sections, epidurals, and the use of Pitocin. Doulas can help individuals navigate the birthing process and potentially reduce the need for medical interventions.

  6. Improved birth satisfaction: Many people report greater satisfaction with their birth experience when they have a doula's support. Having someone who is solely focused on their well-being can create a more positive and empowering birth experience.

  7. Partner support: Doulas also support partners, providing guidance on how to best support the birthing person and offering relief when needed. This allows partners to actively participate in the birth without feeling overwhelmed.

  8. Postpartum support: Some doulas offer postpartum services, helping with breastfeeding, newborn care, and emotional support during the early postpartum period. This can ease the transition into parenthood.

  9. Decreased stress and anxiety: Doulas can help reduce stress and anxiety during labor by providing a calming presence, information, and support. Lower stress levels can lead to better birth outcomes.

  10. Increased confidence: The presence of a doula can boost a birthing person's confidence, as they feel more prepared, informed, and supported throughout the birthing process.

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