She waits.
Mary Kay goes though transition in the bath.
When you are pregnant, it can feel like everyone is waiting on you. Between a flood of "Have you had that baby yet?" calls and texts, to questions of when you are planning to schedule your induction, mothers often report feeling frustrated and overwhelmed as their pregnancies come to a close. As your doula, I will not be waiting on you, I will be waiting with you, until your baby decides that the time is right to be born.
My services include: One free, no-obligation consultation appointment to see if we are a good fit for each other; two prenatal appointments to discuss your birth wishes and plans; being on-call 24/7 for the four weeks surrounding your due date; attending your birth, no matter when it happens or how long it takes; and one post-partum appointment* to check in, provide breastfeeding support if it is needed, and help you process the events that took place at your birth. I will also be available by phone and email throughout your pregnancy if you have questions, concerns or just need to talk.
My services include: One free, no-obligation consultation appointment to see if we are a good fit for each other; two prenatal appointments to discuss your birth wishes and plans; being on-call 24/7 for the four weeks surrounding your due date; attending your birth, no matter when it happens or how long it takes; and one post-partum appointment* to check in, provide breastfeeding support if it is needed, and help you process the events that took place at your birth. I will also be available by phone and email throughout your pregnancy if you have questions, concerns or just need to talk.
The big day
Sarah
leans in for support during an active labor contraction.
At your birth, I usually meet you at your home to help you through early labor, and then travel with you to your chosen birthing place. I will support you through your entire labor. I will model breathing techniques, assist you with relaxation exercises, suggest position changes, offer massage, and apply counter-pressure techniques, as well as provide plenty of space for you to rest and spend time with your partner.
My job isn't to replace your partner, but to support both of you in your journey to becoming parents. Often partners want to help more, but are unsure of what to do. Hearing a calm, confident, reassuring voice or a few gentle suggestions can make all the difference in the world.
I will provide information when it is requested, to help you make the best choices for you and your baby. If complications arise, I will support you and assist you and your partner as needed, helping you to find your voice and help you to understand what you gain and what you give up with each birth choice you make with your care-provider. I cannot advocate for you, but I can teach you and encourage you to speak up for yourself. Even if your birth ends up differently than you envisioned, I will stick with you every step of the way.
My job isn't to replace your partner, but to support both of you in your journey to becoming parents. Often partners want to help more, but are unsure of what to do. Hearing a calm, confident, reassuring voice or a few gentle suggestions can make all the difference in the world.
I will provide information when it is requested, to help you make the best choices for you and your baby. If complications arise, I will support you and assist you and your partner as needed, helping you to find your voice and help you to understand what you gain and what you give up with each birth choice you make with your care-provider. I cannot advocate for you, but I can teach you and encourage you to speak up for yourself. Even if your birth ends up differently than you envisioned, I will stick with you every step of the way.
Beyond the birth
Rachel and I discuss Max's birth at her post-partum
appointment.
Doula care doesn't end with the birth of your baby. The post-partum appointment can really help you begin processing your birth, and your feedback also helps me to learn what helped you the most and what I can improve upon in the future.
*Introducing a new offer!
If at any time during your baby's first year of life, you feel like you need some extra support, call or email me to set a second post-partum appointment free of charge.
This second post-partum is completely optional, and up to you to request. At your appointment, we will discuss whatever is on your mind.
Sample topics include: Growth spurts, pumping, going back to work, post-partum depression or other post-partum mood disorders, introducing solid food to your baby, safely losing pregnancy weight for those interested, baby's sleep habits, co-parenting with your partner, or any other parenting topic.
*Introducing a new offer!
If at any time during your baby's first year of life, you feel like you need some extra support, call or email me to set a second post-partum appointment free of charge.
This second post-partum is completely optional, and up to you to request. At your appointment, we will discuss whatever is on your mind.
Sample topics include: Growth spurts, pumping, going back to work, post-partum depression or other post-partum mood disorders, introducing solid food to your baby, safely losing pregnancy weight for those interested, baby's sleep habits, co-parenting with your partner, or any other parenting topic.
Sarah's partner, Justin, holds her hand while she uses hydrotherapy to relax through her contractions.