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A birth doula provides physical, emotional, and informational support during pregnancy, labor, and birth. But what does that actually mean, and what can you expect if you hire me as your birth doula?
Prenatal support:
We’ll have two prenatal appointments, one of which is in person (in your home or somewhere you feel comfortable meeting). The other is virtual, where you can meet my experienced back-up doulas.
We’ll get to know each other and you and your birth partner can ask questions as we talk about what kind of birth you want. I can help with your birth plan, share evidence-based resources, and be ready to text you back when you just need some peace of mind.
You can reach out to me for recommendations on all kinds of pregnancy support in the community, as well (birth education, physical therapy, and more).
Labor & birth support:
It’s my goal to make you feel empowered and confident, trusting your body as you labor and give birth. I’m honored to support all kinds of births — medicated or unmedicated, at the hospital or at home, vaginal or c-section, and so on!
This can look like maintaining a calm environment, setting up twinkle lights, playing your birth playlist, using a diffuser, and more. I might offer to guide you through different positions for labor progression and or provide counter pressure for pain relief.
I help make sure you’re informed about what’s going on, empowering you as you make decisions about what interventions you do or do not want. And most importantly, I cheer you on! I want you to feel confident as you give birth, able to experience the power and meaningfulness of the moment.
Postpartum support:
Immediately postpartum, I help protect those precious bonding moments. I’m able to help you as you initiate breastfeeding and settle with your baby.
We’ll also have a postpartum appointment (I come to you!) where you can process your birth experience and ask questions. I’ll be available by phone for up to a year postpartum, too!
What a doula does not do:
A doula is not a medical provider and does not deliver babies or make medical decisions on your behalf.