Within a Woman

A Complimentary Visit

An informal relaxed meeting to see if my services are the right fit for you. You may take all the time you need to decide. I wait for you to contact me with a decision. This visit can take place at anytime during your pregnancy and anywhere that you are comfortable. Feel free to bring your partner, your questions and if you decide I’m not right for you, I can provide you with alternate names of doulas in the area. No pressures, guaranteed.

Two more visits after you hire me.

These appointments not only help you become more informed about what to expect in childbirth but it helps me get to know you and your partner therefore allowing me to be better attuned to your needs during labour and delivery, and my role as a support person. The first appointment will be to discuss in length your wishes,thoughs, feelings, and expectations regarding labour and delivery, and my role as a support person. We will prepare a birth plan and discuss what decisions might need to be made during labour. A birth plan includes individual philosophies you have regarding pain relief, and choices with regards to relaxation, breathing and visualization techniques, and positions for labour. At this appointment, I will ask you to fill out some more formal paperwork with me.

The second visit will be a hands-on preparation for labour and delivery, approximately 3 weeks prior to your due date, and will take place in the comfort of your home. This will be a review of what will happen during your birth experience, and my role within it. I show you my tools for natural comfort measures. I will actually practice various positions for labour, rehearse relaxation techniques and breathing, which help reduce pain and allow you to work through the contractions. Birth partners are shown how they can be as involved as they wish, so that the birth experience is positive for both of you. This will also be a time to address any concerns you may have.

Continuous support during labour and delivery.

I will be on call fo you 24hours a day/7days a week for 2 weeks prior to your estimated due date until you give birth.

During labour you will most likely go through a full circle of emotions at your birth, on one hand you may feel excitement, and the other, fear. My role as a doula is to help you cope with all the fears and anxieties you and your partner may have. A doula is not only sympathetic, but is informed as well. I can help you remain calm, relaxed and comfortable until labour is well established. This is a quiet and calm presence and reassurance. You will find that generally, the birth partner becomes more involved with your labour because any feelings of pressure or concern can be soothed by me as reassurance and comfort to both of you. There will be times when I simply stay in the background to allow privacy when you are doing well. Using an intuitive approach is part of what makes a good doula. Comfort measures may also include physical ones, an extra practical hand and professional information when requested. I will remain with you up to 2 hours after the baby is born to make sure you are settling in well and help with anything you may need including breastfeeding support if this is your wish.

Postpartum visit in the comfort of your home.

Immediately after the birth it is important that you have bonding time with your baby. I will be on call for you, and then meet again in your home in the next few weeks to review your birthing experience and my role as your doula. At this time, I can assist you further with breast-feeding and with any other questions you may have.

Photographs and /or a birth story as requested and discussed prior to birth

Should you decide that you would like your birth to be documented with photography I would be more than happy to assist you. You can decide how much or how little you want photographed in advance. Additionally, you can request a birth story - a short recap of the fine details of your labour and your childs first moments.

24 hour on call support throughout your prenatal and postpartum experience.

Be reassured that you may ask me anything, at anytime of day or night, this is one of the most wonderful advantages of having a doula.

Additional postpartum doula services are also available. Postpartum services can include helping a mother with household chores, errands, taking care of baby while mommy naps or showers, preparing a meal or simply helping parents get used to life with baby.

Should you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me via phone or email. I am happy to discuss your options and accommodate your needs.

BIRTH DOULA SERVICES, inquire for new rates!