Doula Services | -the-nurturing-doula

Services

First Prenatal Interview

Free of charge and obligation

The very first interview is the most important in this process of finding the right Doula for you. If at anytime you don't feel we are a good fit, please let me know so we can work on finding one for you.

This intial interview is for me to get to know you, and you to get to know me. Bring any questions you have and we can answer them together using our knowledge and resources.

Second Prenatal Interview

After you decide to choose me as your Doula I will visit you a second time closer to your due date to talk about anything you have concerns about as the day comes closer. I will give advice about different things you can do to prepare for baby and we will talk about when to call if you believe you are in labor. I will be available by phone or email to answer any questions or concerns you have.

This also includes attendance at one of your prenatal visits with your care provider if you should choose me to meet them before you give birth. This gives us all a chance to become aquainted and get to know eachother before the big day.

During Labor Support

I will be available to you 24/7 from 37 weeks to 42 weeks gestation. Although I can make an exception if problems arrise before 37 weeks and you still feel the need for my support. When you feel you are in labor and I arrive at your home, or at the birth center or hospital, we will together assess where you think you are in your labor, and what your needs are at that time. If we are already at the hospital we can do anything we need to make the room feel more comfortable. Most hospitals will let you have intermitten monitoring if you choose, forego vaginal exams - however your birth plan is written. As labor progresses I will use massage, aromatherapy (aids in nausea and helps you relax), cold and hot compresses depending on the baby's position (back labor) and many other techniques. I will help you understand that any nervousness or pain you feel is all happening so you can meet your baby, remind you of decisions you have made for yourself and baby, and reassure you in the process of labor so you can concentrate on relaxing and yes - enjoying! the moment your baby comes to meet you.

If a cesarian becomes needed I can accompany you to the OR, especially if I have already met your care provider this will be no problem.

Client Reviews

Thank you so very much for your support throughout my pregnancy and delivery. Your presence brought a much needed calmness and knowledge, and made labor a memorable (not terrible) experience. You will undoubtedly bring the same serenity and passion to many more mothers (and fathers..and extended family) through your work as a doula. Thanks again for everything!

Lauren and Christian C.

Breastfeeding Support

Includes help with initial latching which can be difficult especially for first time mothers. It is very important to establish a good breastfeeding relationship from the start if this is your desire. Babies need skin to skin right away to maintain their body temperature and crave that closeness to mom which releases oxytocin and aids in milk production.

Baby Wearing

My knowledge of baby wearing includes using a Moby wrap or sling. This can be a little difficult to get the hang of but comes easier with every use. Babies again love to feel close to mom and swaddled tight, and right on your chest is where they love to be. You are close to read your baby's cues for hunger and being near your heart helps your baby's breathing stay consistent. Baby wearing has many other benefits including help with colic, acid reflux, fussyness, and reduced overall crying.

Post Birth Support

This can include taking photos, staying with you while your partner stays with the baby for any testing after the birth, getting you a meal or drink, helping you get dressed or shower, ect.

This also includes one visit at your home if you so desire, to assess breastfeeding and wearing your baby - and to let you show off your new little one!

At this time I will also give you any photos on a CD that I took during labor and after. I will also give you a printed timeline of your labor as a keep sake.