First Consultation
An initial consultation, free of charge, where we have a chance to chat and get to know a little bit about each other and see if our philosophies surrounding pregnancy and birth are compatible. After this visit you decide if you want to work with me.
Pre-natal visits
During the 2 or 3 pre-natal visits we talk about your expectations and I help you explore options and define a birth plan. We talk about managing discomforts through relaxation, imagery, physical support and hydrotherapy.
I encourage frequent contact and enjoy being kept up to date with how you are feeling physically and emotionally. This is when we really start developing a relationship.
Through these meetings you will develop an understanding of the birth process and of your own ability to work with your body and to understand its cues. We will work together to ensure that you and your partner are equipped with tools and resources to fully experience the wonderful events leading up to the birth of your baby. You will learn the many ways that I can be of service to both of you and how a Doula eases and shorten the labour process.
The entire birth process
I am on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for 2 weeks prior to your due date and for 2 weeks after your due date. Beyond those dates I am available by phone or email and always respond within a few hours if you leave a message.
Once you are in labour and decide that you need me, I meet you either at your home or in the hospital and remain with you for the entire labour. This continuity helps immensely with your ability to cope with changes in personnel at hospital and is also very effective for your partner who also needs support.
I remain with you after the birth for a few hours to ensure that you are comfortable and that, if required, you have help with breast feeding.
Postpartum visit
I like to visit you and your newly expanded family a week or two after the birth to see how you are adapting, to see if you need any further support and to chat about your feelings around the birth experience. At this time I also provide you with a personal birth story from notes that I make during the labour and delivery. I have found this to be very helpful in putting a very emotional experience into perspective.