My name is Lara Statile, and I am a stay-at-home mother of three small boys living in Raleigh, North Carolina.  I am an RN, an accredited La Leche League Leader, and a DONA-certified birth doula (professional labor assistant).  I also hope to become a certified childbirth educator, lactation consultant, and, someday, a midwife.

Here is a brief account of my own childbirth and breastfeeding history.  Evan Davis was born on July 8, 1998 at Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington, D.C.  For his birth, my husband and I took the “prepared childbirth” classes offered by the hospital.  I received an epidural at four centimeters dilation, and, after eleven hours of labor, Evan was born with the assistance of forceps.  He then spent three days in the intensive care unit to rule out the possibility of an infection.  Evan was breastfed for eighteen months.

In preparation for our second birth, my husband and I took a full series of Bradley Method childbirth classes.  Cooper Richard was born on July 14, 2000, after approximately four hours of unmedicated labor.  The birth took place at a free-standing birth center in Chapel Hill, N.C.  I was supported by my husband, my mother, a good friend, a midwife, and a nurse.  Cooper breastfed into toddler hood. 

Our third son, Finnegan Merrill, was born August 25, 2003 at the same birth center in Chapel Hill.  Our friends and family (including Finn's brothers) were there to participate in the birth and celebrate with us.   The birth went well and he nurses with a vengance. 

I strongly believe that birth is a natural, normal process that has the potential to enrich and empower the woman experiencing it.  I have a genuine and sincere desire to serve the childbearing population.  My wish for each of you is that your birth, whatever the circumstances, be a joyful and satisfying experience for you and your family.  I invite you to explore this website and take whatever information you find useful for your particular situation.  Happy birthing!

 In an effort to provide the most accurate and helpful information, I will periodically update this website.  I am anxious to hear your comments and suggestions.  To contact me, send an email to Lara@abetterchildbirth.com.

Copyright 2002 A Better Childbirth, Inc.