Between hiring your doula and the time you give birth, your doula will serve as an invaluable resource for questions and concerns that may arise through the remainder of your pregnancy.  I offer constant contact via phone and/or E-mail leading up to the day you give birth.  If you ever have any questions or concerns, don't be afraid to call me!  There are no silly questions, and that's what I'm here for!

Before we get together for your birth, we will discuss things like your birth plan in great detail.  If you don't have one, I can help you create one based on your ideal childbirth scenario.  It will entail things such as my level of involvement, other people that will be involved, or not involved in the labor and delivery, how you would like to manage pain, if and when you would like, or will accept medical interventions or pain medication, etc.  If you have a partner, these are also things your partner should be comfortable with.  Ideally, your partner should also meet and help interview your doula candidates.  However, if that is not possible, it's extremely helpful for you and your partner to be on the same page regarding your desired birth experience before you go into labor.  If you do not wish to create a birth plan, we will still talk quite a bit so that I know how best to help you achieve your ideal birth.

During your labor and delivery, I will serve as a calming presence.  I will offer massage, counter-pressure, help establish good breathing patterns, and employ many other techniques to make your labor more comfortable.  I will also serve as your patient advocate, but I will not communicate with hospital staff for you.  I will give you information regarding procedures being suggested.  In the event of unwanted visitors, I can even run crowd control!  I will not take the place of your husband, or other partner.  I am there to enhance your partner's birth experience, as well as your own.  Remember that when you are in labor, my purpose is to mother the mother, not take anyone's place.  Also, please remember that I am there for emotional and physical support only.  I will not provide medical services, such as vaginal exams or breaking your bag of waters.  Of course, this is by no means a complete description of services offered.  This is just a general idea since every family's needs are different, and accordingly, doula services are tailored to meet individual needs.

After your baby is born, I will continue to stay with you until you are comfortable, usually for about one to two hours after the birth.  If you choose to breastfeed, I can assist you with latch and positioning, and/or put you in touch with the closest lactation consultant.  I will touch base some time within the next one to two days to make sure you are adjusting well, but if a problem arises before then, you may certainly call me!  I like to schedule an in-home post partum visit within 2 weeks of the birth, as well.   After birth, there are still many questions new parents have.  Don't ever hesitate to pick up the phone or send an E-mail.  I have resources and experience with breastfeeding, cloth diapering, child-led weaning, vaccinating, circumcision, and many more topics you may have questions about.  Never hesitate to call with questions - that is what I am here for!