Childbirth Education students can benefit from professional and experienced doula services at a discounted rate because we will be working together during classes already to write a detailed birth plan, and I know that you will have a complete childbirth education course. During class, we will be spending 30+ hours together over three months, so that also offers ample time to get to know each other and ask many questions as they arise!
I will meet with you at least once prenatally at your home, if appropriate (if you are planning to spend any time of your labour at home before moving to the hospital, then this is appropriate), so that I can assist you in identifying ways to personalise your labour experience using what you have available to you in your home. We will also discuss your personal preferences for touch, massage, foods, aromas, and such. We will go through what you feel you need and desire most during labour.
During labour and birth, a doula can perform massage and ensure that supplies are readily available (pillows, water, massage tools, snacks, etc.) I am available for constant support and encouragement for both mum and partner/family (if present). I can help in providing general education reminders and explanations, but I will never tell you what decision to make or even what decision I might make as it is Your Body, Your Baby, and Your Birth. As long as hospital policies permit, I will also bring a birthing ball, massage tools, and a rebozo with me to wherever you are labouring at the time I join you.
I can take photos if you like on the device of your choice that you provide and in accordance with the policies of your birthplace.
I have a university degree in Maternal and Child Health: Lactation Consulting. Therefore, I will also assist with the first feeding (if you decide to breastfeed or formula feed, either way). I will ensure that you have everything you need to get settled and started before leaving after the birth.
After the birth, we will meet again within the first week to reassess feeding and take a weight check of the baby (I have a scale). If you are breastfeeding we will do a before and after feeding weight check to verify the amount of milk being transferred in a feeding from mum to bub. We will also discuss the birth experience, how you feel it went and any questions you have. I will also ask you to take a quick postpartum depression screening and leave you guidance on what to do if the score rises over time to a level of concern. (I do not diagnose postpartum depression, but I have suffered from it myself, and know too many women suffer from it in silence, so I feel it is good to know what to look for and what options may be available to you if you need to seek professional assistance in this area.) I will make any referrals that may be needed during this time as well.
The prenatal meeting will last anywhere from 1-2 hours depending on the questions you have. The postpartum meeting will last from 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours depending on how
breastfeeding is going and what questions you have.
If additional breastfeeding support is required, I can offer it to you at a discounted rate for being a client. This first breastfeeding consult during the postpartum consult is included in the cost of the doula package.
As a doula, I will be on call 24/7 for you within a month of your due date. Payment is requested a month before your due date so we do not need to discuss any money concerns at the birth.