The initial consultation does not obligate you in any way. I will meet with you and your partner (if you have one) or other support person so that we can find out more about each other and the kind of work I do, and the role you see your Doula playing in your birth.

 

Once you have made the decision to hire me as your Doula, we will set up two more prenatal appointments. At these meetings we can discuss your wishes for your birth in more detail, including your philosophy around pain medications and other interventions. We'll talk about coping methods you already use, and discuss new ones you might want to think about.  We can talk about positions for late pregnancy and labour, and try out the birth ball and massage tools.  I encourage my clients to work out a draft birth plan, and we will discuss any questions raised by the plan. I can recommend books and articles to read, and help you sort through the information you have and you can make the decisions that will work best for you. It's important to understand that Doulas are not midwives or doctors. We won't tell you what you should do. We can provide you with the tools to make good decisions, but we can't ever make them for you. I can't speak for you in the hospital, but I can help you find your voice.

 

I'm also available by phone at any time for any questions that come up, even if it is to check in with after midwives/doctors appointment.  It's good for me to keep up to date with any changes in your health or pregnancy.

 

I'm on call 24/7 for 14 days before your birth. I ask clients to call when they think they may be in labour so we can discuss what happens next. I will join you at the point that you feel like you'd really benefit from an extra pair of hands, whenever that may be. I usually come to clients' homes during labour, but will meet you at the hospital if that is your preference when the time comes.

 

I stay with you throughout the labour and birth, and for the first 1-2 hours after the birth to help get breastfeeding established and ensure you, your partner and your baby are settled in together. I will stay with you throughout your birth experience even if that involves an epidural or unexpected cesarean section.

 

We meet again after the baby is born, to see how you're settling in, to discuss your experience of childbirth, and give me a chance to admire your baby!  I will then give you a birth story which is a nice keep sake.