+ When will you come to my labor?
I come to you whenever you feel like you need an extra hand. I am more than happy to meet you at your home and we can figure out together when to leave for the hospital/birth center/when to call your midwife. If you don't feel like you need me yet while at home, or if things are picking up quickly, then I will meet you at the hospital/birth center!
+ How long do you stay after the birth?
I generally stay with you for one to two hours post birth, depending on the situation. I like to make sure that you and your partner are fed, baby is eating, and everyone is comfortable.
+ When do people usually hire a doula?
I have recieved text messages with a photo of a pregnancy test, and I have been called two days past a due date. There is no such thing as "too late" in hiring a doula. I can get booked up, however, so give me a call before you feel like you're starting contractions ;)
+ Do you help with breastfeeding?
Absolutely. While I am not a lactation consultant, I have been breastfeeding my children for over 8 years straight now, so I do have a few tricks up my sleeve. I can also spot things that seem to be making things difficult and can refer you to the correct people accordingly.
+ What if you miss the birth?
It is very important that you keep me updated with signs of early labor. I have children whom I need to toss somewhere. With that fact plus Austin traffic, I require one hour leeway to get to you once you ask me to come. If I miss your birth due to a fast labor, I will stay with you for a few hours after the birth and we can later discuss extra postpartum visits as compensation. Unless I miss your birth due to my own fault, my fee is always due in full.
+ Do you have a backup doula?
Always and forever. I do NOT want to miss your birth, but life and emergencies can happen. I will also not risk bringing an illness to your labor and new baby, therefore I have multiple backups, who change depending on their availability or your personality/desires. I find comfort in knowing that any professional doula I would call for backup is someone I know and trust.
+ When do you use a backup doula?
I would call a backup in the event of gross illness, a family emergency or if I happen to already be attending someone else's birth. Another reason for reinforcement is if I have been at your labor for around 20 hours, at which point I may be no use to you and a fresh soul may feel welcome.
+ Do you ever leave a birth?
This is situational. I might need to step out for a restroom break and/or a bite to eat. This will not be while your partner is also taking a break, and I will make sure you are still being taken care of. If I have been with you for almost a full day, I may need to take a nap or call in a fresh doula unless, of course, pushing/birth is imminent.
+ Are you certified?
I am certified through Doula Trainings International, as both a birth and postpartum doula.
+ How can you support my partner?
If you have a birth partner, I do not replace them. I want your partner to be as involved as you want them to be. I am comfortable teaching how and where to massage or squeeze. Encouragement and reassurance are huge, as this is a new experience for them as well, be it the first labor or fifth. They can eat, nap, use the restroom or simply walk out of the room to stretch with the comfort of knowing you still have a helping hand.