How We Work Together

When Your Labor Begins

I prefer that you 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 usually need approximately 90 minutes to get to you from the time you ask me to come.  We will also decide where to meet- at your home, or at the hospital or birth center. Except for extraordinary circumstances, I will remain with you throughout labor and birth.

After The Birth

I typically remain with you for one - two hours after the birth, until you are comfortable and your family is ready for quiet time together.

I am available for phone contact to answer questions about the birth or your baby and would like to get together with you within a week or so after the birth to see how all of you are doing, to review the birth and, of course, to admire the baby.

As a Doula…

I accompany people in labor to help ensure a safe and satisfying birth experience. I have been trained as a Birth Assistant and have extensive experience working with people prenatally, during labor and birth and postpartum. I draw on this knowledge and experience to provide emotional support, physical comfort and, as needed, communication with hospital/birthing staff to make sure you have the information you need to make informed decisions as they arise in labor. I can provide reassurance and perspective to you and your partner, make suggestions for labor progress, and help with relaxation, massage, positioning and other techniques for comfort. I am independent and self-employed. As your birth assistant, I am working for you, not your caregiver or hospital, and will provide continuity of care with always changing doctors and nurses in hospital and clinical visits.

We will schedule an initial interview together and, if possible, anyone else attending the birth, to become acquainted, to explore and discuss your priorities and any fears or concerns you might have, and to plan how we might best work together. This meeting does not obligate you to use my services, but if you do select me, I will want to meet with you at least twice more before your birth to become familiar with your birth plan, including your preferences regarding management options and the use of pain medications. I also want to know your best ways of coping with pain and fatigue and how you and your partner foresee working together.

*What Doulas Do Not Do: As a birth assistant, I do not perform clinical tasks, such as blood pressure, fetal heart checks, vaginal exams, etc.  I am there to provide physical comfort, emotional support, information and advocacy. I do not make decisions for you. I will help you get the information necessary to make an informed decision and support you on any decision you make.

What You Can Expect:

+ Free Initial Consultation + Additional Meetings to Assess Birthing Plan and Pain/Fatigue Management

+ My Presence Before, During, and After Your Labor

+ Relaxation, Massage, Comfort Techniques

+ Continuity of Care as a Steady Care Provider with Ever-Changing Doctors and Nurses in Hospital and Clinical Visits

+ Emotional Support, Physical Support, Communication with Hospital/Birthing Staff

+ Safe and Confident Labor in the Comfort of Your Home

+ Logistics Planning and Contraction Time Management