Frequently Asked Questions

If I have a doula will my partner be left out of the process?
One of the primary goals of a doula is to help the mother's support system help her. I help dads remember what they've learned in birth classes, help them stay hydrated, help them understand what's happening, etc. Your partner knows you well and I know birth well so we make a great team. A doula also allows your partner to stay focused on you throughout the birth process by attending to any periphery details that need to be attended to like driving to the hospital, carrying bags into the hospital, etc.

When will my doula arrive and how long will she stay with me?
At our prenatal meetings we will discuss when you would like me to join you in your labor. I am happy to come to your home at the onset of labor or to meet you at the hospital or birth center. Starting two weeks before your due date I am available anytime you might go into labor day or night. I will stay with you from the time I join you in labor until 1 to 2 hours after the baby is born in situations with no complications. If you are planning to breastfeed I will stay until breastfeeding has been established. 

What will we discuss at prenatal visits?
We will discuss your ideal birth and how we can work together to achieve it. We will discuss your birth plan and where you will be having your baby. We will discuss such details like if you want pictures taken during labor and birth, how far your home is from where you plan to deliver, etc. It is a time to get to know each other and talk through your fears, hopes, and expectations.

What happens if you are not available at the time I go in to labor?
I guarantee that I will be available from two weeks before your due date until two weeks after your due date within my control, i.e. I will not go out of town during this time, etc. However if something comes up out of my control and I am not able to attend your birth my back up doula will attend. This will be a doula that you are familiar with and we will have discussed this possibility at our prenatal visits.

Do you attend hospital births, birth center births, and home births?
Yes.

Will you still be my doula even if I don't want to do natural childbirth?
Yes. I believe that you will benefit from the emotional support of a doula whether you want to do natural childbirth or not and it is my pleasure to be with you and support you either way.