Here is a list of Frequently Asked Questions to help you know me a little better!

1. My family is planning on supporting me through labor, why do I need a doula?
Your doula is not there to replace your loved ones; but to provide support to all of you, this is an emotional experience for everyone!  Your doula supports you and your loved ones by bringing drinks, food, relief and moral support during your labor.  She can help your partner become more involved by making suggestions and helping with position changes.  Additionally, your doula may be the only continuity of care you have.  You may have more than one nurse or the on-call care provider instead of your own.  Research indicates that the more labor support a woman receives and the better its quality, the greater is its favorable impact. 

2. If I am planning on having an epidural, why do I need a doula?
You will still need emotional and informational support even with your physical pain decreased.  Once a woman receives an epidural,  her partner can take a break, get a snack or perhaps some much needed rest.  Some women are unable to nap after receiving an epidural, and a doula will stay by your side, keeping you connected with your progress and helping you cope with any side-effects you may experience. 

3. What kind of training & certification do you have?
I have been trained by the Seattle Midwifery School as a Birth Doula and Childbirth Educator.  I am a current member of DONA and PALS, and am a Certified Doula through both organizations.

4. Do you have a backup doula in case you are not available when I need you?
Currently I am only taking one client a month, and most likely will not need a back-up.  However, back-up arrangements can be made, and I am happy to discuss the options with you.

5. What is your fee and payment policy?
My fee is based on travel distance and your ability to pay; within a range of $300-$600.  All of my services are included in one flat fee regardless on how many hours I am with you.  Before you hire me I chat with you on the phone, and also offer a free personal interview with you and any others you may want present.  Once you decide to hire me, I collect a retainer fee equal to half of your total fee, to secure you on my calendar.  This retainer is NON-refundable in the event that you cancel at anytime.  The balance of your fee is due by your 38th week of pregnancy.  If you think you will be unable to pay the entire balance due at that time, we can make payment arrangements in advance.

6. What types of home visits does your fee include?
I offer 2 pre-natal and 2 post-partum visits in your home.  The first pre-natal visit we will go over our written agreement, your birth preferences, any childbirth education questions you might have, and discuss what you want my role to be.  The second visit will be more hands-on, practicing coping techniques, trying out the birth ball, and showing your partner massage and other skills helpful for you in labor.  The first post-partum visit is usually a few days after the birth.  At this visit I will try to answer any questions you have regarding breastfeeding.  If you desire, I will look at your latch, show you different breastfeeding positions for you and your baby,  and evaluate your body mechanics.  I can give suggestions to help avoid neck, shoulder and arm strain, and show your partner simple massage techniques to help relieve your tired muscles.  I will return for the second post-partum visit at the time of your choosing, so we can talk about your birth, and I can answer questions on infant care, and post-partum care for mom.

7. What is your philosophy on birth and birth support?
My philosophy on birth is this: any way you want it.  My job as your doula is one in which I support your decisions and choices by giving you emotional support, physical support, information and advocacy.  I won't make decisions for you, and I won't judge you for the decisions you make.  Birth is an amazing process, a journey that you will remember for lifetime and I want to help you make this the most wonderful experience possible.

8. What do you think of birth plans?

I recommend presenting it as a list of "preferences" instead of demands, and always with respect.   It is a good idea to talk with your Health Care Provider each time you see her/him about your birth preferences.  This way your Provider can recognize your special needs, and have an opportunity to give you feedback.  You will quickly be able to see  how he/she feels about what you want.  Asking your Provider, "What do you think about ______" is always a good way to begin a discussion about any items that are important to you.

9. What is your availability for questions and support during my pregnancy?
I am always available for questions via phone and email.  Once you hire me I will be on call for you 24 hours a day.  What this means is I carry my pager and cell phone everywhere I go.  I do not travel farther than 75 miles from my home without letting you know,  and I am prepared to leave any event or special occasion I may be attending when you call.  We can also set up additional appointments, if you need them.

10. At what point do you get involved during labor?
I ask that you call me as soon as you think that you are in labor, this way we can chat on the phone and I can hear how you are doing.  I will come as soon as you want me to, whether it be to your home to help you labor there, or the birth place.  I am with you throughout the entire labor and delivery process, and I usually stay with you 2 hours after the birth to make sure you are comfortable and have everything you need. (I can leave earlier, or stay longer depending on your needs.)

11. What is your experience, including, length and variety?
I have been working with pregnant women since 1999 in my massage practice, and since 2001 as a doula and childbirth educator.  I have an in-depth knowledge of the female anatomy, including a thorough understanding of the physiology of the pelvis, and the surrounding muscles.  I have attended over 55 births, and my experiences range from uncomplicated homebirths to emergency cesarean births.  I have helped single moms, military moms, moms and partners, moms and grandparents, moms and husbands.  I've been completely hands on, to helping the partner give the majority of the physical comfort, to hands-off, taking notes in the corner.  I can play whatever role you desire.

12. What is your experience in breastfeeding support?
I have been trained in breastfeeding support as part of my Childbirth Educator Training, and have helped nearly every mom I've "doula'd" with breastfeeding during the post-partum visit.

13. How early in advance do I need to hire a doula?
It is a good idea to hire your doula as soon as you can, schedules can fill up quickly.  It benefits you to hire one sooner than later, as you will have a longer period of time for you and your doula to get to know each other.  I encourage you to interview several doulas before you decide which doula is right for you.

14. Do you offer any additional post-partum services?
You can hire me to come into your home and help you as needed to promote your recovery from birth, as well as: Assisting with newborn care, breastfeeding support, performing light housework, promoting parental bonding, facilitating, reinforcing, and supporting family bonding through this transition.