Briana Gibbs
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Birth Doula
Welcome to
Ark of Advocacy
Ark of Advocacy
Hello, Mommas,
My name is Briana Gibbs, and I am the Owner and Founder of Ark of Advocacy. I am a Birth and Postpartum Doula serving the Maryland Eastern Shore. I help women and families in-person and virtually during birth and up to six months post-delivery. I pray that this website is a blessing to you as you embark on your beautiful journey called motherhood. Ark of Advocacy was founded on the idea that all mothers should be covered physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually; before, during, and after pregnancy. I aim to remind mothers to trust the strength of their bodies and knowledge during this time. As your doula, it is my job to provide unbiased information and emotional support to the entire family unit. In addition, I will be there to provide cover for your family during your most sacred and personal time. Please take some time to look over my website and reach out at any time if you have questions. Thank you!
About me
Why I Became A Doula
In August of 2019, I found out the exciting news that I was pregnant. Ecstatic and filled with so many emotions that I couldn't process at once, I ran to my husband and I's bedroom and began crying and proclaiming " We're pregnant!" The sheer joy that engulfed my husband's face made me feel like the happiest woman on earth. Although my pregnancy started off smoothly, at 32 weeks gestation the worst news any mother could hear was dropped like a bombshell, " You are at risk for preterm labor." Immediately my heart sank, tears fell from my eyes, and all voices became muffled. " How can this be?", I thought. Thankfully and by the grace of God, I was able to continue housing her inside my womb until 39 weeks. Fast forward to delivery day, we are now smack dab in the middle of a PANDEMIC. Masks must be worn, no additional visitors allowed aside from my husband, and temperatures must be taken before entrance into the hospital. The events that occurred during my labor and delivery, woke up the calling in me to ensure that other families don't go through what my family and I went through. That was the moment that Ark of Advocacy was born and now my job is to assist you in birthing your child.
My Training
Labor and Postpartum Doula
Mama Glow 2020
Dona International 2022
Services
What is a Doula?
A doula is a person who is trained to assist a mother during the experience of childbirth. A doula provides continuous physical, emotional support as well as education and advocacy for a mother and her family before, during, and after childbirth.
Benefits of having a Doula
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9% drop in use of pain meds
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31% less use of Pitocin
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34% fewer perceived negative birth experiences
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40 minute shorter labor
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12% increase in vaginal births
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28% fewer cesarean sections
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Increased breastfeeding success
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Decreased incidence of postpartum depression, shorter duration, and easier for mother to cope when it occurs.
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Less maternal exhaustion, frustration, trepidation, and anxiety during the first weeks.
All Packages Include A Free Consultation
The first meeting is a time for us to get to know each other and if we want to work together. It is very important that all parties involved feel a level of connection as this work is very sacred and personal. I can't wait to share your beautiful journey with you. Call or email today!
As a Doula, I Do Not:
Perform any clinical tasks
Make decisions for you but rather empower you with the tools that you need to make informed decisions
Birth Packages/ Virtual & In- Person Support
Standard Package- $1,375 In- Person, $1,000 Virtual
What is included:
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2-3 prenatal visits in your home or via phone/video call
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On call availability 24/7 starting at 36 weeks, through two weeks after client’s due date (total of 6 weeks)
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1 postpartum visit ( Additional postpartum package can be purchased)
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Customized Birth, Postpartum, Infant Feeding plan
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Education + community resources
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Continuous email, text, and phone support before, during and after labor
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Unlimited telephone and email support starting at signing of contract
Birth Only- $1,200 (34-42 Weeks)
What is included:
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1 prenatal visit
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Continuous support during labor and delivery
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Customized birth planning
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1 postpartum visit (Additional postpartum package can be purchased)
*Travel Fee- $100 (over an hour) *
Speak to the staff on your behalf but rather encourage communication with the staff to ensure informed decisions can be made regarding your labor and delivery.
Diagnose any medical conditions or interpret any medical diagnoses or clinical results.
Client Testimonials
Postpartum Package/ $ varies depending on family's needs
What is included:
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Light housekeeping (laundry, dishes, etc.)
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Assisting with other children (if applicable)
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Newborn Care suggestions/guidance
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Errands/grocery shopping (funds must be provided for items to be purchased before the errand)
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Breastfeeding/formula feeding support
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Pumping support
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Information regarding baby care and self-care
Such a great experience! Very attentive and caring. She was always there when I called or text and checked in regularly on me. During labor she was the extra support I needed at all the right moments. Highly recommend her to all expected mothers!! ❤️❤️ - Heather
Customized Birth Plan $100
What is included:
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Conversation regarding your birth vision
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Birth plan template
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Breakdown of terminology used on birth plan
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Hospital bag checklist
*This service is offered virtually and in person. It can be purchased as a stand alone package*
Customized Postpartum/Infant Feeding Plan $100
What is included:
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Conversation regarding your postpartum and infant feeding plan vision
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Postpartum and Infant feeding plan template
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Postpartum Care PowerPoint/Workshop
*This service is offered virtually and in person. It can be purchased as a stand alone package.*
I decided to seek a doula for my second birth after having a less than stellar first birthing experience. From the moment I met Brianna, I felt comfortable and like I had known her for years. She has such a light but caring disposition that made me instantly feel comfortable. She helped me to create a birth and postpartum plan. She also provided great resources to include a first rate childbirth class. Most importantly she was there throughout the last months of my pregnancy, continuously checking in and being a source of support for my family and I through birth. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a doula
who is going to ensure that you feel comfortable and empowered. - Catoya
Briana Gibbs was a wonderful doula for me. I don't have a close female family member nearby, so Briana filled the gap and gave me the nurturing support I needed to feel safe. Briana helped me define my birth plan and empower me. She helped my second son's delivery be night-and-day different from my first son's delivery! -Sara
Contact
If you have any questions or would like more information about my services, please feel free to contact me.
I will get back to you as soon as I can.