Many people wonder what, exactly, a doula does during a birth.  Simply put, I am there for you however you need me!  My role is defined by you--I can be your primary support person or a "fly on the wall."   I am there to help you know your options so that you can make informed decisions. 

 I will meet with you at least one to two times prior to your baby's birth and again at least one time after your baby is born.   During these prenatal visits, we can get to know each other and discuss what your goals and desires are for your birth.  I can help you to write down your birth preferences and  you can communicate how you envision my participation in the labor and delivery process.  These visits also provide an opportunity for me to meet with fathers or other family members who will be at the birth and address any questions or concerns they may have, as well as to provide you with information about community resources that might be of benefit to you.

When I am hired as your doula I am on call for you twenty-four hours a day beginning two weeks before your estimated due date, until your baby is born.  I make every effort to make sure that my schedule allows me to attend the birth.  If, however, unforeseen circumstances arise, such as illness or injury, that prevent me from attending the birth, I have other doulas who I work closely with and who provide back-up care for me.  You are always welcome to request a meeting with my back-up doula. 

Once labor begins, I will remain with you continuously until one or two hours after your baby is born.  As a doula, I utilize non-medical techniques to help with the labor process.  Examples include suggestions for positional changes, counter pressure for back labor and gentle massage.  I strive to maintain a peaceful environment as much as the place of birth allows.  I am your advocate.  While I will never speak for you, I will help facilitate communication between you and your birth team as much as possible.  After your baby is born I will help you initiate breastfeeding and will not leave until you and your baby are settled.

I provide on-going telephone and email support for two weeks after your baby's birth covering breastfeeding and newborn care, as needed. An in-home post-partum visit one to two weeks after the birth is included in my fee where we can talk about the birth, share pictures and memories and discuss any questions you might have. 

As both a doula and an IBCLC, I am able to offer you breastfeeding assistance immediately after birth and as part of our follow-up visit.   This help is included in the cost of hiring me as a doula.  In situations where ongoing issues present themselves and you need additional visits pertaining to breastfeeding, please see my fees for lactation consultations here.