The Birth Doula Experience

I will meet with you for two prenatal meetings to help you prepare for your birth. I can provide guidance on what to pack in your delivery bag, help you clarify your birth preferences and develop your “birth plan”, and walk you through a labor rehearsal.

I am on call 24/7 and available via phone and email for your labor and birth two weeks prior to your due date, or if you begin showing preliminary signs of labor before 38 weeks. I remain on-call for you until your baby is born.

 If I am unavailable for any period of time during your on-call period, I will have backup doulas in place who are willing to step in. 

I prefer for you to call me when you think you are in labor, even if you do not yet need me. I can answer questions and make suggestions over the phone. We will decide if I should come right then or wait for further change. I can typically arrive within one hour to get to you from the time you ask me to come; either at home, the hospital or birth center, providing reassurance and helping you determine when to leave for the hospital.

I am a familiar presence who will stay with you for your entire labor and help you feel calm, comfortable, and confident as your birth unfolds. I am specially trained in providing comfort techniques such as breathing, massage, relaxation, positions, heat and cold packs, and use of the tub or shower.

I will remain with you for 1-2 hours after birth, until you are comfortable and your family is ready for quiet time together. I can also help with initial breastfeeding, if necessary.

Within three weeks after you baby's birth, I will conduct 1-2 in-home visit to discuss any feeding challenges, sleep issues, and overall adjustment. I am again available via phone and email with any questions you have until your baby is one month old.