WHAT I DO
EMAIL & PHONE SUPPORT
I am available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone and email from the date of hire. Please call at any time, night or day, whether you have questions or if you simply want to update me on your progress.
WHEN YOU ARE IN LABOUR
I prefer that you call me when you think you are in labor, even if you do not yet need me. We will decide if I should come right then or wait for further change. I usually need approximately one hour to get to you from the time you ask me to come. We will then decide where you would like me to meet you; home, hospital or birth center. Except for extraordinary circumstances, I will stay with you throughout labor and birth. If you want photos of the birth I am happy to take them for you.
PRENATAL VISITS
These are scheduled for us to get to know each other better, to explore and discuss your priorities and any fears or concerns. To discuss your birth plan and plan how we might work best together. You are under no obligation to hire me after our first visit.
We will go over your updated birth plan and I will bring needed resources such as: packing list, labor signs information and any other information you request. Practicing for labor and how to ease tension and comfort measures is important to work on before labor starts and we work on this together.
Labor support: Visualization, breathing, positioning, counter pressure, massage, relaxation scripts, birth ball, and help in creating your perfect birthing room.
Help record the birth; photographs/video at your request
AFTER BIRTH - 1-2 POSTPARTUM VISITS
I will stay with you for one to two hours after birth, until your family is comfortable and ready for quiet time together. I can also help with initial breastfeeding, if necessary.
I am available to answer questions about the birth or your baby and would like to get together with you within a few weeks to see how you and your baby are doing, to review the birth and to get feedback from you about my role.
AS A DOULA -I DO NOT:
1. Perform clinical tasks such as blood pressure, fetal heart checks, vaginal exams and others. I will under no circumstances take the role of your nurse or doctor and catch the baby should you go into labor at home. In this case, I would support you and verbally encourage your partner to deliver the baby.
2. Make decisions for you. I will help you get the information necessary to make an informed decision. I will also remind you if there is a departure from your birth plan.
3. Speak to the staff on your behalf. I will discuss your concerns with you and suggest options. You or your partner will speak directly to the clinical staff.