How Does It Work?
Complimentary Meet & Greet
Let's get together and chat! You can tell me what you're looking for in a doula and ask all your questions. I will go over all my services in detail. Partners are welcome and encouraged to join. Currently all meet & greets are taking place over zoom.
If it seems like we are a good fit, I will send you a contract; a retainer fee is due at time of hire to reserve your estimated due date on my calendar. The rest of the payment is due by 37 weeks.
Unlimited Phone, Email, and Zoom Check Ins
If we have a good personal connection and you choose me as your doula, I will be available throughout the rest of your pregnancy and after your birth by phone, email, or zoom for any questions that arise. In the two weeks leading up to your due date, and until the birth of your baby and soon thereafter, I will be on call for you 24/7.
Two Prenatal Visits
I offer two prenatal visits, either over zoom or in-person. We will discuss your birth wishes, any questions you have regarding labor, birth, and newborn care, and your emotions surrounding this birth. We will practice pain coping techniques and relaxation methods. I can help you write your birth preferences, as well as outline a postpartum plan. We will review the logistics of what happens when labor occurs. If you have a partner who plans to attend the birth, it is important that they also attend these meetings.
As a Doula, I Do Not:
Perform any clinical tasks
I have specific training and experience with labor support, which is a combination of emotional and physical, non-medical assistance. I do not assist with any medical tasks; that is reserved for your doctor, midwife, or nurse.
Make decisions for you
This is your birth. My job is to stay by your side as you decide what is best for your body, your baby, and your family. I can provide information where it is lacking or unclear, but I cannot make decisions on your behalf.
During Labor
I will join you in labor whenever you feel ready for extra support. This may be at home or at the hospital. I will provide continuous support for you and your partner throughout labor and birth. I will provide guidance on different positions and relaxation techniques. I will advocate for you by helping you follow your birth plan as closely as possible, answering questions as they arise, and helping with communication between you and your caregiver as needed. I will stay for an hour or two after the birth until you and your baby are resting comfortably. For the doula & photography package, I will also photograph your baby's birth story, creating images you can cherish for a lifetime.
Project any of my own beliefs onto your experience
It is my duty to provide nonjudgmental support to you. This is your birth and it is highly important that you experience it free from bias. I will stand next to you and support whatever you choose for your own unique situation.
Postpartum Visit & Photo Gallery
In the days after your baby is born, we will schedule an in-home postpartum visit to see how your recovery is going and help you process your birth story. I can offer basic lactation guidance and direct you to resources to help you with any concerns you have about yourself or your newborn. If more support is needed, we can have a check-in via zoom a few weeks after the birth, and I will continue to provide support by phone/email in the following three months. If you have also purchased photography services, a digital gallery of hand-edited photos will be provided 4-6 weeks after your baby's birth.