Birth Doula Services & Fees
Currently I am working towards my ALACE certification and am not charging for my basic services. Upon certification (Summer of '08) I will begin charging.
No Obligation Consultation
This is a chance for you to discover if I am the right doula for you: including my personality , my experience, and my birth philosophies. During this meeting you may have several questions you want to ask me about my training, philosophy and the services I provide. I am enthusiastic about giving you all the information you need to choose the doula that is right for you.
My basic service package includes:
- Two prenatal visits
- Support for the duration of you labor and two hours following birth.
- This includes 24/7 on-call availability 2 weeks prior and following your due date.
- Unlimited phone time to address questions and concerns.
- One visit 3-5 days postpartum to address concerns and offer any assistance necessary (newborn care, nursing help, or even basic cleaning if so desired)
This package may be altered to better fit your needs for an additional fee per service which may be discussed at our initial consultation or during any of our visits.
Prenatal Meetings
If, after our consultation, you decide I am the right doula for you we will sign our contract and schedule additional prenatal meetings to discuss your birth plan and generally become more acquainted with one another. At this time, a $50 retaining fee will be charged. (This fee is waived until Summer '08) I usually meet with my clients two times before the birth of their baby, unless more visits are desired. Partners are welcome and ecouraged at all prenatal meetings!
Phone & Email Support
Between visits, if you feel like you need someone to talk to about your pregnancy or impending birth, you are welcome to contact me via phone or email. Many clients find that they use me as a sounding board when something concerns them and they don't know if they want to "bother" their care provider or not. Then again, sometimes you just need someone to vent to about your pregnancy and I'm happy to be that person! Obviously, however, my advice cannot substitute the professional advice of your physician or midwife.
Labor & Birth Support
Simply put, I will be there from the time you feel you need me until after the baby is born. I am on-call for you 24/7 in two weeks before and after your due date. My job is to meet your and your partner's needs during labor. I do this by helping your partner show you relaxation and pain coping techniques, running interference with visitors, filling everyone's basic needs (food, drinks, bathroom breaks, etc), helping you acquire additional information about interventions if they become necessary, and generally just making sure your labor and birth go as smoothly as possible. If you partner will not be present or your partner needs a break or is uncomfortable with any aspect of labor support, you can expect that I will give you all the one-on-one support you need.
Postpartum Visit
After the birth of your baby, I would like to visit you upon your return home (3-5 days post partum). This is a great opportunity for us to discuss your birth, troubleshoot breastfeeding or baby care issues, or just hang out and admire your precious little one(s). I'm more than happy to do basic cleaning to allow you some time to relax. I'm also available by phone or email anytime after the birth if you need help or suggestions.
My Fees
I am currently working towards my certification. At this time, I am not charging a fee for my basic package. Upon certification (Summer of '08) my fee for my basic package will be $300. A $50 non-refundable deposit is required upfront to reserve your birth on my calendar. I believe every woman deserves a doula regardless of their ability to pay, so if my fee seems uncomfortable to you, please let me know at our consultation and we can discuss ways to accommodate your budget.