Below is a list of some of the services I provide.  Your labor and birth will be a very intimate experience.  It is important for you to carefully choose the doula who will share this experience with you. Therefore, it is important to interview more than one doula before making a decision.  This will enable you to find the person who will be the best fit for you and your family. Your labor assistant should be fully supportive of your idea of a wonderful birth.

My Services include:

Initial Meeting:  Free consultation to get to know each other.  We'll review the services available and your desires and needs for your birth.

Prenatal:  I am always available by phone or email to answer questions or concerns.  We will meet 2-3 times, depending on your needs. 

First visit - We will discuss services and the family's needs in more detail and answer any questions you have.   I'll also provide you with educational materials. 

Second visit - We will discuss options for labor.  I will provide assistance with writing a birth plan or review the plan you have written.  We'll review physical comfort measure for labor and practice some positions for labor. 

Third visit - Family defined - I'll call before this visit to find out what information you want me to provide.

 Birth:  I will be on call from 2 weeks prior to your due date until your delivery.  During early labor, I will be available for telephone support.  When you're ready, I will join you at the hospital or at your home.  If you'd like to avoid medical interventions, it may be best to labor at home as long as possible.  I will provide emotional support and answer questions as labor progresses.

I will be able to provide physical comfort measures, such as massage, hand/foot massage, hot/cold compresses, and position changes.  I also provide support and encouragement to Mother's partner and help him particiate at his comfort level.

Postpartum: After your baby is born, I will stay with you until you are settled into your recovery room with your new family.  Or until your home is cleaned up and your comfortable and settled after a home birth.  I will help with initial breastfeeding, if desired. 

Once your home, I will be available by phone or email for questions.  We'll also have a follow-up home visit to review the birth experience and provide information and resources regarding infant care, breastfeeding, postpartum recovery, etc.

What I do not do:

I do not replace your physician or midwife.  

I do not provide doula services to couples planning an unassisted birth (without physician or midwife). I will help you to find these professionals if needed.

I do not perform medical exams such as blood pressure, fetal heart rate, or vaginal exams.

I do not make decisions for the birthing Mother and or her partner. I will provide information and answer questions so that you can make your own decisions. I will support all decisions you make.

I do not speak to the medical staff on your behalf. I will answer any questions you have so that you can discuss your desires with the staff.  I will remind you if actions stray from you Birth Plan.