Hi there, expecting parents!
I am Lea – your Jerusalem-based doula.
As your doula, I provide continuous emotional, physical, and informational support throughout your entire birthing journey –
before, during, and after birth.
I speak English, Hebrew, and German (fluent in all three – 🇮🇱 🇺🇸 🇬🇧 🇩🇪) to ensure clear communication and a stress-free birth experience.
Whether you’re planning a hospital birth at Hadassah Har Hazofim or Ein Kerem, St. Joseph’s, Shaarei Zedek, a home birth or c-section in Jerusalem or the surrounding area, I’m here to support you.
Empowering families is my passion. Schedule a free consultation!
How My Support Looks Like
The core of my work is the continuous support I provide throughout your entire pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey. As a trauma-informed doula in Israel, I’ll create a safe, supportive space built on trust, where you can feel empowered and informed.
My goal is for you to thrive, acquire evidence-based knowledge, identify your personal needs, give birth feeling empowered, and emerge from the experience ready to start the journey into parenthood.
Before Birth
We build a strong foundation for your birth journey through compassionate prenatal care. This includes a comprehensive birth class, private prenatal meetings for personalised preparation, and bodywork sessions (including massage) to promote comfort. Together, we can also address fears, process past birth experiences, and create a personalized toolkit.
At Birth
I’m by your side, offering continuous physical, emotional, and informational support. We can use various comfort measures (e.g. breathing, positions, movement, massage) and address challenges like baby’s positioning or emotional distress. As your advocate, I’ll support you in receiving evidence-based information and support your choices (no matter what!) throughout the birth.
After Birth
My care extends beyond birth. I’m here for newborn and postpartum questions, initial birth processing, and recovery support. You will also receive follow-up support to discuss your needs, which may include emotional and practical guidance, a birth processing session, a healing belly massage, or closing of the bones treatment.
photo credit: voices of Eve photography
REIMBURSEMENT!
Great news! Doula services can be reimbursed!
You might be eligible for reimbursements of up to 2,700 NIS for doula care & birth preparation. Kupot Cholim offers up to 2,200 NIS through supplemental plans, and most Jerusalem hospitals also contribute up to 500 NIS.
DOULA PACKAGES
Find your perfect birth fit! Whether you seek classic doula services with added perks, comprehensive care from the 1st trimester, or birth processing and trauma-informed prep, I offer a variety of packages. Special options exist for women I supported in the past, C-sections, and home births. Below, swipe to learn more!
Ready to Start?
Here are two ways to connect and explore how I can support your birth journey:
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Schedule a free 40-minute Get-To-Know Meeting at my home clinic on Adam Street to ask all your questions, learn about my services, and find out if we are a fit.
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Enroll in the KBBirth preparation online course. If you decide to have me as your doula afterward, the fee will be deducted from the overall doula fee.*
Discover How KBBirth Empowered Parents-to-Be Like You
Thank you Lea!
Thank you Lea so much for being there for me before, during and after birth.
Your knowledge and patience prior to the birth provided me with a sense of security and confidence in the lead up.
Your presence during the birth was so calming. You knew exactly what to do and when to do it. I am not sure how we could have gotten through it without you.
Your visit post birth and processing was something I didn’t even know I needed until after the fact. Having you validate my feelings and reassure us everything is and will be ok, was such a relief.
You really brought such positive energy and light to the whole experience and I am so happy to know you!
Highly highly recommend !
Lea Reichel was the best doula I could have asked for!
Lea Reichel was the best doula I could have asked for!
She gives you so much more than you can imagine.
From a full childbirth course packed with everything you need to know, to a powerful bodywork session and personal meet-up where you can dive deep into all your questions-she truly goes above and beyond.
I ended up having the most incredible birth I could have hoped for: no epidural, no tearing, not even an IV or needle in me!
And to wrap it all up, we had a beautiful session to reflect on my birth experience. Lea guided me through meaningful activities that helped me see my birth like a powerful movie of my own life. We also did an amazing “closing of the bones” treatment that helped me reconnect with myself and life on a deep level-I finally understood why it’s called that.
Lea is not only incredibly knowledgeable, but also one of the kindest people you’ll meet.
Thank you, Lea.
P.S. This is coming from a doula, bodyworker, and childbirth educator myself-and I can honestly say that Lea is on another level when it comes to birth. Her depth of knowledge is unmatched. You will be in the best hands with her!
Positive Induction Birth Story
A month later, I wanted to post my hospital and doula review for anyone whom the information might assist as some of you might be making decisions or know people making these decisions in the coming months. To preface, I had an induction at 37 weeks following a varix, or enlarged vein in the umbilical cord which is not dangerous until the blood flow becomes turbulent, which it did in the last days of my 36th week. The induction took five days and they tried every method possible: gel, stripping about 5 times, two balloons, 3 bags of Pitocin on the highest dose, and finally a combination of Pitocin and breaking my water.
Har Hatzofim was where I chose to give birth and very grateful I did because at no point during this process were they prepared to even discuss a C-section and told me they were with me to the end and were going to try everything so I could have the baby naturally. They offered constant support and always found me a place to sleep as I waited for the birth room I wanted (which was stunning and has a closed in porch, making it the perfect visiting place so I didn’t have to have everyone in my room with me). They found me a doctor’s room to sleep in, moved me to the ward where the nurses were on top of my care, and finally gave me the birth room for about 36 hours with no rush to get me out until I had given birth. I did not have an epidural, therefore when it was time to push, I wanted to be on my knees so I flipped over on my own and the midwife was supportive of my decision as well as letting me push on my own without constant instruction. After the birth, all of the midwives I interacted with came up to wish me mazal tov. All in all, I was treated by a staff who were naturally minded and had actually read the latest research on birth and various issues associated with varix. Another cool part about the hospital is the outdoor parking lot reserved for the patients right outside the מיון יולדות. I was able to take walks outside and pop in and out when I wanted.
Doula: Lea Reichel Knowledge Based Birth. I started Hypnobirthing sessions with her to get my head right and get over my intense fear of childbirth and ended up taking her as my doula. The birth classes were just her, my husband, and I so we had a personalized experience that allowed us to be comfortable and ask all the questions we needed. She walked through every step, using scientific research and mindfulness techniques alike to prepare me for what was to come. During the five days in the hospital, she came every time they started a new method, supporting me through balloon contractions and bringing all the equipment to make me be able to work through the pain. She empowered me and didn’t have to be told what to do, she just did, allowing me to focus on breathing and my body. For the six hours of labor, she worked hard applying pressure, moving me, and using hot water, as I could not speak because it was so intense. She was a friend too and we loved chatting with her as we waited for things to happen. She also made sure I was taken care of after the birth and brought me to the shower to wash off and get dressed. She checks in often after the fact and will answer any questions I had about my own health and the baby if we needed. Here’s her profile: https://www.facebook.com/share/15m7zcznnc/
In all, what could easily have been a traumatic experience wasn’t and I have come away more powerful and happy with everything that happened!
If anyone has questions, feel free to reach out, I just wanted to leave this here in order to help someone who might be looking to see what is out there.
The Core of My Care
Continuous Care
Countless studies show the benefits of continuous care. I’m by your side every step, from pregnancy to postpartum. From the moment we start our journey together, I’ll supprt you through all the milestones and moments of your journey from pregnancy to postpartum.
Individualized Care
I provide more prenatal meetings than any standard doula package because I strongly believe that the true benefits of continuous care emerge when there’s ample time to personalize the support and build trust. Whether you opt for one path or another, please know that I am always on your side.
Trauma-Informed
Many women have faced experiences like sexual abuse, pregnancy losses, or traumatic births. This has driven me to specialize in trauma-informed care. During our prenatal meetings, if you wish to, we can discuss any past trauma and its potential impact on your birth experience. My goal is to ensure you feel heard, valued, and fully supported throughout your journey.
Family-Centered
As your doula, I aim to make you feel supported and connected from the very beginning of your family journey. I am here to provide support not only to the birthing mom but also to the partner who undergoes significant life changes too. During the birth process, I can also assist the non-birthing parent in supporting the birthing woman.
Knowledge-Based
My main goal is to empower you by giving you the best evidence-based info and helping you make informed decisions for your family. With my academic background, I can guide you through these choices, helping you using solid evidence. I’m always keeping up with the latest research and learning more about birth every week.
But it’s not just about the facts—I also want to help you figure out what YOU need during birth by tapping into your inner self-knowledge. Together, we’ll create a supportive and connected environment where you can thrive and confidently welcome your new baby into the world.
Learn more about Lea here.
Birthing Options in Jerusalem
Choosing a birthplace is a big decision, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
The key to choosing the right place is receiving unbiased information – that’s why I created a booklet that compares the birth options in Jerusalem for YOU, for FREE!
Learn more about birth in general and birth in Israel – follow me on social media!
FAQ
If I have questions during pregnancy, can I contact you?
Yes, of course! I am here for you throughout all of the journey. We will have a WhatsApp group with you, your partner (if there is one), and me to make communication easier, and you can always call me.
Do you speak Hebrew?
Certainly. It was important for me to study all my birth-related education (doula, birth ed, B.O.T.) in Hebrew and not choose one of the English-language courses. This allows me to assist you in navigating the healthcare system, translating both Hebrew and the medical language. I understand Hebrew on an academic level and can also speak it pretty fluently.
How long have you been working in the field?
Since January 2021, I have been working as a birth educator, and since 2022, I have offered prenatal and postnatal B.O.T. sessions, such as prenatal trauma-informed birth education & postnatal birth processing.
Realizing that this was the field I wanted to dedicate myself to, I decided to become a doula to support women and couples continuously throughout their entire journey. I began accompanying births in June 2023.
Since then, I have been blessed to support many births in all four Jerusalem hospitals.
When do I pay you?
In general, a retainer fee is paid when we start working together, a second payment is paid once I go on call and the remaining balance 2 weeks after birth. Depending on your insurance, it might be better to pay differently, which we will figure out then. If you need a more spread-out payment plan, we can discuss this as well.
What does the price include?
The prices include the services of each package and include all expenses on my side (the materials I provide during birth preparation, the items I bring with me to support you during the birth, and my traveling costs, such as gas, parking, or taxi fare if a taxi is needed)
Can I get a discount?
First of all, there are reimbursements available through the Kupot Cholim and hospitals, here you can find more information.
You are very welcome to share your financial difficulties with me, and together we can figure out an installment plan that works for both of us.
I love see families grow – I give a discount to families who I have accompanied in the past.
How long are the meetings?
The prenatal meetings last around 2 hours. The postpartum meetings last around 1.5 hours. Your birth takes as long as it takes – no matter if its 3 or 30 hours.
Where do the meetings take place?
I am working as doula in Jerusalem and surrounding areas. Most of the meetings take place on Adam Street in Jerusalem. For the last prenatal meeting, I will come to you so that I know where to find you on the big day in case you need me to be there when you are still at home. For the first postpartum meeting, I will also come to you.
When do the meetings take place?
This depends on the package you book, the standard time when to meet with the basic+ package is 29, 33 and 37 weeks before birth 4-7 days after birth, and 2-6 weeks after birth. Being a doula means being available for women who are in their due date window 24/7 and leaving my family and anything I am doing within very short notice, day and night, weekday and Shabbat, or holiday. To be able to provide this challenging service the pre- and postnatal meetings are limited to daytime hours during the week. Once a week I offer meetings in the afternoon and every two or three weeks on Fridays.
You can easily book the meetings online!
When do you join me during birth?
We will keep in contact right from the beginning of birth, and even before, so I can provide phone support when needed. Usually, I join once labor is established, but I do not follow any rules about how far dilated you ‘have to’ be or that you already need to be in the hospital. Once you have strong contractions and need an extra set of hands for support, I am here for you in your home or in the hospital.
How long does it take you to get to me?
One of the reasons why it’s important to be in contact already during early labor is so that I can get ready to come to you as quickly as possible once you request my presence. If I already know that birth is going to happen soon, I can usually leave within minutes to get to you in a very short amount of time. If labor starts suddenly, it can take me up to 2 hours plus traffic to get to you within Jerusalem, but usually, I am by your side much faster.
Why are there no pictures of you with newborn babies and moms who just have given birth?
The short answer is: Privacy! The longer answer is: I would never ask you to take a picture with your newborn baby and you in the hospital or a similar setting. It is an honor for me to accompany you, but I do everything in my power to not disturb your bonding with the baby. I truly believe in honoring the trust you have given me and ensuring that your privacy is protected at all times.
I am religious, what happens if I go into labor during Shabat or Chag?
Please call me! Research shows that doula support improves birth outcomes, such as reducing the need for c-sections and interventions. I follow a ruling that considers doula support during birth as falling under pikuach nefesh, which is why, as a doula, I am allowed to be on-call 24/7. As it’s not clear exactly why doula work is so effective, whether it’s the emotional, physical, or informational aspect, I can support you in the same way I would on any other day, ensuring that the benefits of having a doula are fully realized. Of course, if you have any other requests because you follow different rulings, please let me know.
How many births a month do you accept?
Up to 3. In the unlikely event that I cannot attend your birth due to illness or because I am assisting another birth, I have a backup in place.
What is a doula and why should I need one if I anyway have a midwife?
You can read more about this great question, here.
When should I hire you?
Whenever it is the right time for you, but if you already know you want a doula, why not reach now and reserve a spot – some months I book out months before. Read more here.
*Can I sign up in the KBBirth course and afterward book you as my doula?
Yes, definitely, but I only accept up to 3 births a month, and I am saving your spot only once you sign up for doula services. If you choose to proceed in this way, the fee you paid for the course will count towards the overall doula fee.
Can you check my dilation?
No! Doulas are not allowed to check dilation. Doulas who claim they can do this is a big red flag!
As a note on this, I also support moving away from dilation-focused birth support towards women-and-baby-centered birth support. There are valid reasons to do cervical examinations (by a midwife or doctor), but there are so many more signs to gauge how birth is progressing and dilation is everything but linear.
What method do you work with?
The ‘You-Method’ – that’s what I call it. I want to get to know you and learn about your needs. I am not here to impose any agenda on you or convince you to have one form of birth or another. I am here to provide information, offer non-judgmental support, and help you on YOUR journey. This is your birth, and you are the boss. We will spend a lot of time getting to know each other, so I can learn about your preferences and needs.
To tell you a bit about how I work: I love working with supporting physiology. I believe that during any type of birth, there is a lot to do to help your body give birth. I concentrate on supporting movements and positions that are suitable for the baby’s station in the pelvis. I also want you to feel safe and at home to have your hormones work optimally, and to do this we can use relaxation techniques, breathing, and more. In addition, there are tools like back massage and birth scarves that I use both to support the baby on its journey and for you to feel more comfortable. If I see everything is going smoothly and there is no need for “doula interventions,” I am sometimes “only” providing the support of reassurance and holding the space. Every birth is unique! Depending on your preferences and the course of the birthing process, as a team, we will decide what actions to take based on the circumstances.
