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The Role of the Doula
Prenatally: As a doula, I will meet with you at least twice before the birth to discuss your needs and priorities, explore any fears or concerns, and to plan how we might best work together. One of these visits will take place at one of your regular doctor's appointments so that your doctor and I have a chance to meet and so that we all have an opportunity to discuss our collective expectations for the birth. I am "on-call" for two weeks before and two weeks after your estimated due date. I am available by phone to discuss any questions or concerns you may have before the birth. For those who are interested, we can also arrange a Blessingway Ceremony amongst close friends and family to celebrate your passage into motherhood. A Blessingway Ceremony differs from a baby shower in that it is the mother and her journey, along with the coming of the baby, which is honored. I am also available to assist in the creation of a belly cast to celebrate and preserve your pregnant shape. During Labor: During labor, I provide continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the birthing mother and partner. This may include, but is not limited to, massage, suggesting a change of position, reminding mother of breathing techniques, and explanations of procedures and medications offered by the hospital staff. As you and your partner are in effect being birthed into the new role of parents, I ultimately respect the process you are going through together and work to the best of my ability to support you both. I prefer that you call me when you think you are in labor, even if you do not yet need me. I can answer questions and make suggestions over the phone. We will decide if I should come right then or wait for further change. I usually need approximately one hour to get to you from the time you ask me to come. During this call we will decide where to meet-at your home or the hospital. Except for extraordinary circumstances, I will remain with you throughout labor and birth. 
After Birth: I usually remain with you for one to two hours after birth, until you are comfortable and your family is ready for quiet time together. I can also help with initial breastfeeding, if necessary. I will visit the day after the birth, and twice more within the first week in order to assess your and your baby's well-being. For one of these visits, you may choose to participate in a "closing" ceremony, a ritual of massage, herbal steam baths, and physical and energetic "closing" of the body after opening to give birth. This ceremony can be performed after cesarean birth as well. Further visits can be arraged if necessary. I am available by phone to answer questions about the birth or your baby and would like to get together with you within one to two weeks to see how you are doing, to review the birth, and to get feedback from you about my role. One month postpartum or later, I am available to teach you and your family infant massage. What Doulas do NOT Do: As a doula, I do not perform clinical tasks, such as blood pressure, fetal heart checks, vaginal exams, etc. I am there to provide only physical comfort, emotional support, and advocacy. As a doula, I do not make decisions for you. I will help you get the information necessary to make an informed decision, and I will remind you if there is a departure from your birth plan. As a doula, I do not speak to the staff instead of you regarding matters where decisions are being made. I will discuss your concerns with you and suggest options, but you or your partner will speak on your behalf to the clinical staff. 
Choosing a Doula: At our initial meeting, we will "interview" each other, to ensure that everyone feels confident and comfortable in working together. Giving birth is a powerful, personal experience. Please ask any questions that may occur to you, as it is very important that you feel at ease with me during this time. There is no fee for this initial visit, and no obligation. Should you select me as your doula, I will be available by phone for any questions or concerns that you may want to discuss. Should you desire more than two meeting times, this can be arranged. I will also inform you of any times when I am unavailable for labor support. |
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