About
Rita DiRito
I have been doing this work for nearly thirty years, which is long enough to have opinions and long enough to know when to keep them to myself.
Meet the founder
Rita DiRito bridges the gap between age-old traditions and modern medical approaches to the birthing experience. For nearly thirty years, she has implemented and directed massage, doula, and childbirth education programs at leading obstetrical and nurse midwifery practices.
Rita creates a network dedicated to the individual needs of each expectant family. Pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period are a rite of passage that when honored, respected, and celebrated, holds the potential to create a deeply meaningful transformation. A satisfying birth and parenting experience develops from a strong foundation of emotional, physical, and spiritual support.
What that looks like now
Childbirth and newborn classes, support for families through the fourth trimester, licensed massage and bodywork, and training and mentoring for other doulas. Some of it happens in person around Chicago. A lot of it happens on a video call at an hour that would horrify most people.
She also works with the doula program serving high-risk Medicaid patients in Chicago — work that matters to her more than almost anything else she does.
Who vouches for her
Rita DiRito is one of the most special people I know. She is a highly informed and passionate supporter of all that contributes to healthy, well-adjusted children: a prepared, natural childbirth, successful breastfeeding, and child-centered parenting. Rita is so deep, thoughtful, and soulful that I often consider her more than just a regular person — she is a true force of nature.
Robert J. Minkus, M.D.Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University
On a personal and professional level, I can’t recommend Rita’s doula services enough. I have personally witnessed countless women whose birthing experiences were vastly improved by the support of a doula. Rita’s work is remarkably unmatched. She has a natural ability to guide women through the difficult transitions of labor, always staying one step ahead. So many of my patients have achieved their goal of a natural birth with the support of Rita’s skills and loving approach to birth.
During the birth of my second child, Rita’s loving presence was my anchor. I knew I’d get through a difficult transition with Rita there to help me. I strongly recommend Rita’s services to anyone looking for a conscious, natural, beautiful birth experience.
Sara Eggemeier, CNMCertified Nurse Midwife