Birth, Postpartum, and Sibling Doula Support

What is a Doula?

Simply speaking, Birth Doulas are trained to provide physical, emotional, and informational support to parents during labor, birth, and the immediate postpartum period. If you asked me, without bias, we are more than that. Almost every doula has their own story of the driving force that led them to become a Doula. For me, this passion came from two very opposite birth experiences. I wanted to be the support that I needed when I was giving birth.  

Usually, my job involves waking up at all hours of the night to head to a birth. Sometimes I get covered in bodily fluids (of many different kinds). I often have to find creative places to sleep or shove something to eat into my mouth as quickly as possible between contractions, trying not to let anyone notice. Sometimes I go a night (usually more) with no sleep. I get cramps from getting into all sorts of positions to try to support my laboring clients. I miss gymnastics classes, family dinners, and a million things in-between. Despite all of that, it is one of the most amazing, miraculous, rewarding jobs, and it's an honor to serve my families.

What Services Do You Provide?

Throughout the pregnancy, I offer my clients prenatal visits. This is a great time to get to know each other, connect, and share wisdom. I tailor every visit to my client’s needs, meeting them where they are at in their journey. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to supporting. During this time I offer optional childbirth education classes and birth planning classes.

Beginning at 37 weeks gestation I go on-call. I remain on-call until you give birth! During birth, I offer emotional support, physical support, and education. What I do is fluid, and adapts to the needs of every client. For some, I may do counter pressure and guided breathing techniques. For others, I may watch silently as they labor, rooting for them from across the room. 

After birth, I stay to support you through the transition. Depending on where you birth, this may look like picking up around the house, ordering you your favorite food, or helping with the first latch, leaving when you are ready. 

During postpartum visits, I encourage my clients to rest and let me help where I can. We may work on breastfeeding, pumping, or bottle feeding. Sometimes support can look like running to the store for you, throwing some laundry in, or vacuuming a room.