As your Doula, I do the following:
Free Consultation
I believe that every birthing person/family should interview and get a feel for a few doulas before they hire the one they feel is the best fit for them. I offer free 30-45 minute consultations with anyone that would like to meet me and discuss how I can serve you through labor and birth. We can meet in-person for the consultation. Video call or phone call is also an option!
Phone & Email Support
After the date of hire, I am available to you and your partner, to answer any questions you may have & discuss concerns, fears, or worries. I encourage parents to reach out to me when they would like to chat and I do my best to respond as soon as possible!
2 - 3 Prenatal Visits
If time in your pregnancy permits, I prefer to have two (3 hour) or three (2 hour) meetings during your pregnancy with you and your birth partner(s)/spouse. This is to discuss any birth plans/preferences, labor and childbirth education, labor comfort measures, medical interventions, etc. and to create a relationship with you!
2 - 90 minute massage sessions
As my birth doula client, two - 90 minute massage sessions are included! You can choose to receive both massages during pregnancy, or save one to use within the first 3 months postpartum. Massage sessions are offered in your home or at The Juniper House in Chesapeake.
- You may need a doctor's written approval prior to your massage if there are any major health issues or risks.
Continuous labor and birth support
I believe that one of my most important roles as a birth doula is to provide emotional and physical support throughout your entire labor and birth journey. I am on call to support you and your partner when you go into labor. I offer phone support in early labor, and when you are ready for me to provide support in person, I head your way ASAP! From the time I can arrive to you in labor, whether it be at your home, hospital, or birth center, I intend to stay with you 1 to 2 hours after the birth of your baby.
Baby’s First Feeding Support
I assist you with the first time feeding your baby and finding the right position that is most comfortable. I try my best to help you get relaxed during this initial bonding time. I have many great breastfeeding & formula feeding resources to share and I can talk over your infant feeding options, desires, and goals with you.
Community Referrals
I can give you several community recommendations/referrals, online resources, and books with information in regards to pregnancy, childbirth, formula and bottle feeding, pumping, breastfeeding, postpartum support, newborn care, babywearing, cloth diapering, car seat safety, and more.
As your Doula, I do NOT do the following:
Perform any clinical tasks
As a professional birth doula, I will not perform clinical tasks, such as taking blood pressure, fetal heart checks, vaginal exams, administering IV's or medications, etc.
Make decisions for you
I will not make decisions for you, however, I will help you get the information necessary to make an informed decision. I will also remind you during labor if there is a departure from your birth plan and discuss with you and your partner your goals, desires, and options.
Speak to the medical staff on your behalf
As a doula, I will not speak to the medical staff instead of you. If there are decisions that need to be made, I will discuss your concerns with you, and encourage you to ask questions to your provider and staff. You or your spouse will speak on your behalf to the clinical staff.