What is the doula light virtual package?
It is a way for you to access a number of personalized components that were part of my traditional support package. You will get respectful, encouraging, reassuring one-on-one attention for the duration of our contract, which can lead to greater satisfaction with your entire experience. This will allow you to tap into my evidence-based knowledge in my areas of expertise including pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, and newborns.
How is this different from traditional birth doula support?
Traditionally, in addition to the services provided in this doula light package, doulas are on-call 24/7, join you in-person to provide continuous physical and emotional labor support, and have a backup doula in place.
Why aren’t you offering continuous or in-person labor support?
Being on-call 24/7 means I would need to have several layers of on-call childcare available at all times, which is not currently possible. Fewer people in the room means less risk of COVID transmission for brand new families.
Will you be available at all during my labor?
I am available from about 10 AM – 2 AM for text support and will stay up later if I know you are in labor, in order to answer any questions or concerns that may arise for you. Because I cannot be on-call 24/7, I cannot guarantee availability during your labor, but will make every effort to provide a safe caring place for you to reach out if you need me.
What is Spinning Babies?
Self-care and specific body activities restore body balance and make room for the baby. Babies then put themselves into the best positions possible for childbirth – within the anatomical space available. Techniques can also be used for helping get a breech baby to turn. Click here for more information.
Why is it beneficial that you have additional training in perinatal mental health conditions?
Mood and anxiety disorders in the time before and after birth are both extremely common and often overlooked. It can be challenging to figure out a course of action when you are struggling. I can help identify when professional help is in order, and assist your navigation to getting it. This is an area of special interest to me, as I have lived through it, and have often witnessed the gap between maternal and mental health care.
Why is it beneficial that you have CLC training?
CLC (Certified Lactation Counselor) certification means that a person has received training and competency verification in breastfeeding and human lactation support, including assessing the latching and feeding process, providing corrective interventions, counseling mothers, understanding and applying knowledge of milk production including in special circumstances and other commonly encountered situations. I was certified in 2015, but have allowed the certification to lapse. I still have the knowledge, can offer advise on common breastfeeding/chestfeeding challenges, and can refer you to local lactation support if more hands on, intensive help is necessary.
What if I realize I want in-person support as I get closer to the end of my pregnancy?
I can help you navigate the search for an available birth doula in your area.
Do you offer gift cards?
At this time, I do not have gift cards available. However, if your friends and family are interested in contributing to your doula support, reach out and we can figure out how to do that.