My first experience with birth that was not my own child’s was a friend’s in Arizona, in 1997. Being part of that birth sparked a deep interest for me in all things maternity.

A mother of three, I have been active in the Santa Cruz birth community since shortly after the birth of my third child, Henry, at home in 2002. 

My particular passion is ensuring that women understand that they have options in birth—and the benefits and risks of various choices—so that they can make the best choice for themselves and their babies.

I trained with Twin Lakes College of the Healing Arts and trained and certified through Doulas of North America (DONA). Additionally, I am certified in Basic Lifesaving (BLS) for Healthcare Providers and in Neonatal Resuscitation.

I serve on the board of directors for Birth Network of Santa Cruz County. Birth Network organizes and sponsors the quarterly Bellies, Birth & Babies Expo  events in Santa Cruz, as well as offers information, education, and advocacy for childbearing families. See www.birthnet.org for additional information.

I have been attending National Midwifery Institute since January 2006 and assisting with homebirth in a busy local midwifery practice.

I am adept at supporting women who choose pain medication, and those who do not. I have taken part in  Hypnobirth and Birthing From Within classes, to be able to support women choosing these methods of childbirth education. I use methods from both in working with all clients.

In keeping with my passion for informed choice in birth, I am also a published author on birth issues in both national and local magazines. Recent articles have appeared in ePregnancy, Fit Pregnancy, and Growing up in Santa Cruz. Ask to see my clips!

 

Dawning Mama Doula Services

Helping Women into the First Light of Motherhood

Kelly Olmstead, CD(DONA)

Phone: 831-457-2343

E-mail: Kelly@dawningmama.com

 

Serving families in and around Santa Cruz

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About Kelly

Kelly Olmstead