What does a birth doula do? Support the birth you desire; educate you through the entire birthing process; support you emotionally, physically and mentally; provide a sense of peacefulness and calmness during labor; assist you in creating your birthing plan; empower you to communicate openly with your birth provider.

Being your doula means different things! I am there to hold your hands and breath with you for hours as you settle into the rhythm of your labor, or move to a background role because you don’t want to be touched and are needing solo connection with your partner. I am there to ensure everyone is nourished, hydrated and well rested. I am there to encourage you, remind you of various laboring positions and much more.

My goal is to help you have a safe, healthy and positive birth experience in whatever environment you choose, be it at home, the hospital or a birthing center.

WHAT MY SUPPORT INCLUDES:

Before birth:

After our initial contact, we will arrange to meet to determine if we are a good fit for each other. If you decide to contract my services I will be available to support you via phone or email throughout your pregnancy and for 2 weeks after the birth of your baby. Depending on your preferences, we will meet prenatally for one or two visits and this will give us a chance to get to know each other better, discuss your priorities for the birth as well as any concerns that you might have and create your birth plan. I will want to remain in touch by telephone and/or email in the weeks leading up to your birth and I will be on call for you 24/7 when you reach 37 weeks.

During your labor and birth:

When your labor begins, I will be available to provide you with support over the phone until we decide that you are ready for me to join you. We will decide together if you would like me to meet you at your home or at your birth place. During your labor, I will offer physical and emotional support that allows you to discover what works best for you, your partner and/or other birth companions, and your care providers in each moment. I will do my best to create a positive and peaceful birth environment; ensuring that you have the informational and emotional support necessary to make informed decisions about your care.

After your birth:

I will remain with you for an hour or two during the “golden hour” after the birth until you are comfortable and ready for quiet time with loved ones. During this time, I can help with initial breastfeeding, as desired. We will schedule your postpartum visit in the week or two following the birth and this meeting typically lasts about 90 minutes. This allows me to see how you and your family are adjusting, assisting you with minor issues, and listening to your birth story. If you would like further support for your transition, postpartum doula care can be added to your support package.

Investment for birth doula support is $1200