The Great Northwest Doula Service
Birth Doula
The day you've been waiting for is finally here!
On the big day, from the time you call me I am at your full disposal. My goal is to support you and your partner while you both navigate bringing your newest family member into the world. I can also translate "medicalese" and use a variety of non pharmaceutical techniques to reduce pain ensuring you have a great birthing day!
If you remember from the Doula Myths page: Doula's DO NOT take the place of your partner on the day of your child's birth. This is because of one simple reason: as a Doula, one of my goals is to assist your partner in helping and supporting you. While you may be the star of the show, I am also there for the supporting cast as well!
Once the baby is born, I will stay until after your little ones first feed to ensure that their are no problems with the first latch, or other feeding issues. once that is complete I will excuse myself so you can enjoy time with the newest member of your family!
Postpartum Meetings
I will meet with you twice more after delivery (if you choose not to use my Postpartum service). The first visit is typically a day or two after the delivery and is a relatively quick check in to see how everyone is doing. I will also make sure that feeding is going well and answer any lingering questions you may have about the delivery. Lastly the final meeting will also be scheduled during this time. The second and final postpartum meeting will address any residual issues, questions or business.
Breastfeeding Support
If after your two postpartum meetings, their continues to be issues with breastfeeding, I will meet with you for one consultation. During that time I will attempt to find and correct whatever the issue may be. There is no time limit on this consultation. If I am unable to find or correct the issue, I will provide you with a recommendation to a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) or an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant(IBCLC) for definitive expert remediation.
This is an additional consultation and fee.
Ways I can Support you during Labor
Photo courtesy of Charlotte Kaufman
-
Walking the block or the halls with you
-
Helping you with the use of the birth ball or squat bar
-
Keeping you well hydrated and nourished with snacks and drinks (dependent on facility allowance)
-
Playing your favorite music or "birth playlist"
-
Massage utilizing pressure points and counterpressure to alleviate muscular pain and back labor.
-
Helping you adhere to the tenets of your childbirth education (Bradley, Hypnobirthing, Lamaze etc)
-
Coaching your partner in the performance of any of these measures
-
Many other options are available that can be tailored specifically to you