Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
What does a doula do?
A doula is there to provide emotional, physical, and informational support to people who are giving birth, and in the prenatal and postpartum period. They are there to help the client and their family feel safe, comfortable, and taken care of. Additionally, if you are not from the U.S., I can help bridge the gap between you and the medical professionals in the hospital. I am there to make things easier with language barriers and in helping you understand the medical system here in relation to giving birth.
I have experience working with people from many different cultures and backgrounds, and I will do my best to understand your cultural background, traditions, and values so that I can help give you the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experience you would like.
What does it look like working with you?
We will have two prenatal visits, I will be with you during labor, and then we will have two postpartum visits. From the time I become your doula I will be available for unlimited phone support and will be happy to talk with you about any questions you have. If it isn’t about a time-sensitive issue, the hours I will be available by phone are from 9am-6pm.
In our prenatal visits we will get to know each other and become comfortable with each other, create a birth plan and go over how you would like me to support you during your birth. That could be through massage, helping you advocate for what you want your birth to be like, being a constant presence, helping coach you through contractions, and more.
My partner will be supporting me at the birth. Do I need a doula too?
A doula complements rather than replaces the role of your partner during childbirth. A doula can provide your partner guidance on how to be most helpful by teaching techniques such as massage, comfort measures, and breathing strategies. The doula also has a good understanding of birth and can help the laboring person in trying different positions and strategies, which the partner may not have knowledge of.
In addition to taking care of the person in labor, we also support the partners. We make sure the partner is fed, hydrated, is able to take breaks when needed, and give them peace in knowing that if they need to take a nap, their partner will be taken care of. This collaborative approach ensures that both you and your partner feel supported throughout the labor.
What if I can't afford to pay for doula services?
I serve a diverse clientele, but my heart lies in supporting Africans, immigrants, and refugees especially. That does not mean that I am exclusive to that though! Above all, I prioritize compatibility and connection with my clients. Whether you're seeking guidance or support, schedule a free consultation with me so that we can explore our potential partnership and ensure a harmonious fit. And if I am not the right fit for you, I will do my best to help you find a doula who is!
What types of clients do you serve?
I believe that everyone should have access to doula care during childbirth! If you are concerned about affordability, please don't hesitate to reach out. We can explore various options together, including:
Payment plans: We can set up a schedule that allows you to pay for doula services over time.
Service exchange: If you have a skill or service to offer, I'm open to discussing trading doula services for what you can provide.
Baby registry: Consider adding doula services to your baby registry, allowing friends and family to contribute towards this support.
Sliding scale: If you can afford to pay only part of the fee, we can discuss a sliding scale to accommodate your financial situation.
Let's work together to find a solution that ensures you recieve the support you need!
Do you only do hospital births?
No, I love attending births anywhere! As long as you have another professional there to deliver your baby (doulas are not interchangeable with midwives!) then I am happy to be at birth in a hospital, a birth center, or at home.
What does a doula do?
A doula is there to provide emotional, physical, and informational support to people who are giving birth, and in the prenatal and postpartum period. They are there to help the client and their family feel safe, comfortable, and taken care of. Additionally, if you are not from the U.S., I can help bridge the gap between you and the medical professionals in the hospital. I am there to make things easier with language barriers and in helping you understand the medical system here in relation to giving birth.
I have experience working with people from many different cultures and backgrounds, and I will do my best to understand your cultural background, traditions, and values so that I can help give you the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experience you would like.
What does it look like working with you?
We will have two prenatal visits, I will be with you during labor, and then we will have two postpartum visits. From the time I become your doula I will be available for unlimited phone support and will be happy to talk with you about any questions you have. If it isn’t about a time-sensitive issue, the hours I will be available by phone are from 9am-6pm.
In our prenatal visits we will get to know each other and become comfortable with each other, create a birth plan and go over how you would like me to support you during your birth. That could be through massage, helping you advocate for what you want your birth to be like, being a constant presence, helping coach you through contractions, and more.
My partner will be supporting me at the birth. Do I need a doula too?
A doula complements rather than replaces the role of your partner during childbirth. A doula can provide your partner guidance on how to be most helpful by teaching techniques such as massage, comfort measures, and breathing strategies. The doula also has a good understanding of birth and can help the laboring person in trying different positions and strategies, which the partner may not have knowledge of.
In addition to taking care of the person in labor, we also support the partners. We make sure the partner is fed, hydrated, is able to take breaks when needed, and give them peace in knowing that if they need to take a nap, their partner will be taken care of. This collaborative approach ensures that both you and your partner feel supported throughout the labor.
What if I can't afford to pay for doula services?
I serve a diverse clientele, but my heart lies in supporting Africans, immigrants, and refugees especially. That does not mean that I am exclusive to that though! Above all, I prioritize compatibility and connection with my clients. Whether you're seeking guidance or support, schedule a free consultation with me so that we can explore our potential partnership and ensure a harmonious fit. And if I am not the right fit for you, I will do my best to help you find a doula who is!
What types of clients do you serve?
I believe that everyone should have access to doula care during childbirth! If you are concerned about affordability, please don't hesitate to reach out. We can explore various options together, including:
Payment plans: We can set up a schedule that allows you to pay for doula services over time.
Service exchange: If you have a skill or service to offer, I'm open to discussing trading doula services for what you can provide.
Baby registry: Consider adding doula services to your baby registry, allowing friends and family to contribute towards this support.
Sliding scale: If you can afford to pay only part of the fee, we can discuss a sliding scale to accommodate your financial situation.
Let's work together to find a solution that ensures you receive the support you need!
Do you only do hospital births?
No, I love attending births anywhere! As long as you have another professional there to deliver your baby (doulas are not interchangeable with midwives!) then I am happy to be at birth in a hospital, a birth center, or at home.
