bellies birth and beyond

My Doula Services:

After our initial contact we will set up an interview, completely free of charge and not obligating you in anyway to use my services. If you decide to hire me, I will need your signed contract and the deposit before setting up your first prenatal. I would encourage you to bring your spouse or significant other and a list of all your questions to our interview.

I would like to meet with you two to three times prior to the birth, starting between 22 and 26 weeks if possible. At these prenatal appts. we will cover a wide range of topics and information, including childbirth education, local resources, patient rights, nutrition, breastfeeding, pain coping techniques, comfort measures, positions for laboring and how they can help, your birth plan and what you and your partner want out of your birth. My goal is to help you make informed decisions on every aspect of your birth and postpartum care.

At 38 weeks (unless you have a history of earlier deliveries, then we will discuss options), I will go on call until your baby is born. I will also come to your home for a 2 hour intensive labor rehearsal. It is my hope and goal that this will leave you excited and confident about your upcoming birth. Once you start active labor I will not leave you. I will stay with you to provide emotional support, physical comfort and the information you need to make informed decisions as they arise during your labor. I will provide reassurance and encouragement  to both you and your partner, as well as provide medical prospective when needed. I will make suggestions for labor progress and help with relaxation, massage, positioning and other specialized  techniques for comfort.

I usually remain with you an hour or two after delivery or until you are comfortable and your family is ready for alone time together. During that time I can take pictures of your new family (if you would like) and I can help with the initial breastfeeding if needed.

I like to set up 2-3 postpartum visits, first one between 1-2 days postpartum and again about 2wks. If more help is needed I will gladly come again around 4 weeks. Of course I am always available by phone, email or texting if you have any questions between those visits.