Q: What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?
A midwife is a healthcare provider who is responsible for providing medical care during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. A doula, on the other hand, does not provide medical care, but rather provides emotional, physical, and education support to the mother and her partner.
Q: How many clients do you take?
Typically, I limit myself to 1 - 3 doula clients per month.
More info on my current availability can be found here.
Q: What happens if you can't attend my birth?
I always contract a back-up birth doula in the unlikely chance of an emergency or sickness. You will have the option of meeting the back-up doula through a virtual call. If no doula attends your birth, you will be refunded per guidelines of our signed contract.
Q: Can I use FSA or HSA money to pay for doula services?
It depends on your specific FSA/HSA policy terms. But yes, I have had many clients successfully use FSA/HSA funds to cover the cost of their doula contract.
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Typically, you will need to pay upfront for the invoice and then apply for a reimbursement from your FSA/HSA company.
Q: How does a doula support a woman during childbirth?
A doula provides emotional support by offering encouragement, reassurance, and a calming presence. They also provide physical support by suggesting positions and movements that can help ease the pain and discomfort of labor. In addition, a doula can help the mother and her partner communicate effectively with medical professionals.
Q: Can a doula replace the support of a partner or family member during childbirth?
No, a doula cannot replace the support of a partner or family member, but rather complements it. A doula can provide additional support and guidance to the mother and her partner, helping them navigate the challenges of childbirth together.
Q: What if my birth plan changes during labor?
A birth doula is there to support you in your choices and advocate for your birth preferences and expectations, but sometimes these plans do change. A doula can help you navigate any unexpected changes or interventions during labor to ensure you are empowered and emotionally connected throughout the changes of your birth.
Q: What is the difference between a birth doula and a postpartum doula?
A birth doula provides support during pregnancy, labor, and childbirth, while a postpartum doula provides support after the baby is born, including breastfeeding support, infant care, and household help.
Q: Do birth doulas work with all types of births, including home births and hospital births?
Yes, birth doulas work with all types of births, including home births, hospital births, and birth center births.
Q: When should I hire a birth doula?
As soon as you are ready. Although it's never too late, it is recommended to hire a birth doula in the second trimester of pregnancy to ensure availability and ample time for prenatal support.
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You can find my birth availability calendar here.
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