What does a doula do?
Doulas nurture and support you across the stages of reproduction. Doulas are most well-known for their roles in childbirth, where they offer nurturing support in pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period. Doulas offer physical, emotional, spiritual, and informational support to help guide families into matrescence and beyond.
Do I really need to hire a doula?
A Cochrane review from 2017 found that people who received continuous support in birth were more likely to have spontaneous vaginal births, less likely to have pain medications or epidurals, negative feelings about childbirth, and shorter labors (by 41 minutes on average!). Additionally, they had lower cesarean rates, and less use of vacuum or forcep-assisted births. Doula support is a safe and beneficial way to support better outcomes for yourself and your baby.
I have a supportive partner, do I need a doula?
YES! A doula is hired for you and your partner. When your partner needs a break, we are there to take over. When your partner panics, cries, needs to use the bathroom, or take a nap, or even process any of the events that are happening, we are there to normalize, help, and advocate alongside you both.
Do we need to have an exact plan in place before we hire you?
No, plans are great, but birth, reproduction, and postpartum are unpredictable. We plan A, B, C, and Z, so that you feel prepared for any situation that may arise. We also focus on flexibility and discovery. As you find out new information, we continue to adjust and plan accordingly. As a doula, it is a privilege to plan and support you along the way. Doulas merely follow your pathway and provide informational, compassionate, and holistic support for your journey.
I am a loss parent and have no idea where to begin?
Message me. Let’s chat. I am here for you, no questions asked. Your safety and heart are my top priority.
Can I hire you after my baby has been born?
YES! A postpartum doula is focused on the mother or birthing parent. If you need support in a way you were unable to predict, this is the best time to hire a doula. We can curate a one-time visit, or multiple visit package that adjusts to your needs as a new parent. There is no task or request that is too silly. Postpartum is hard. Let me be a part of your village.
I live in a different state/city. Can we still work together?
YES! The virtual world is a beautiful place to be a doula. My ability to work with you transcends state lines. We can work together intimately in a virtual setting, and I can even be on call for you without ever having to step foot into your birth room. Please inquire so we can develop a package that is best tailored to your needs.