Frequently Asked Questions
What is a doula and what do they do?
A doula – Greek for woman’s servant or mother helper – is a trained birthing professional who provides emotional, physical and educational support for the laboring person. The labor doula is fully available as a companion and advocate to the family.Â
Doulas all differ in their practice, but many including myself are trained in specific comfort measure techniques involving the birth and peanut ball, counter pressure, massage, rebozo, essential oils use in labor, hydrotherapy and verbal affirmations.
Will a doula replace my partner’s role in birth?
Absolutely not. Your partner is as involved as you and your partner desire. This includes others who may be present at the time of your birth. My role is to support you and support those supporting you. I do encourage that all individuals that will be present for your birth attend at least one prenatal consult so that everyone is on the same page. If this is not feasible, sharing your birth plan with those who will be in attendance is highly encouraged so they can see your vision for your birth!
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Does a doula advocate or speak for me?
A doula provides you with evidence based information so that you can be empowered to advocate for yourself. In certain circumstances, a doula would only speak for you if you asked them to 100% were not being heard or respected.
When will the doula arrive?
I arrive as soon as you want me to. I have gone to clients’ homes right when labor begins and traveled to the birth center/hospital with them and I have also gone straight to the hospital/birth center after hours of my client laboring peacefully at home. It is your birth, your way.
Do you go on-call for my birth?
I begin being on-call at 2 weeks before your guess date, up until baby is here. Prior to this on-call period, I am available 24/7 by text, phone, email for questions and resource referrals.
Can I hire a doula if I am having a planned Cesarean, multiples or a medicated birth?
Absolutely! Doulas are primarily there for emotional support, secondary to physical support. I am here for you to be empowered, supported, and celebrated in however you choose to birth!
Does a doula replace childbirth education classes?
No. We cannot possibly cover the entire scope of physiological birth and address your physical and emotional desires for your birth in our time together. I always encourage my clients to attend childbirth education classes, even if it is their 2nd, 3rd etc baby!
After birth or once I'm home will I see the doula again?
Directly after birth, I remain with you for 1-2 hours (or however long is needed) for you to settle in and begin breastfeeding. I will see you again within 3-5 days postpartum to check in.
What impact does exercise have on pregnancy and labor?
Some studies suggest that the fitness level of the birthing person can result in shorter labor, fewer medical interventions, and less exhaustion during labor. Other benefits include:
improved sleep, increase in mood, energy during the day and improved self image. decreases in ankle swelling, leg cramps, back pain, varicose veins, constipation and hemorrhoids can be seen as well.
What kind of exercise can or can’t I do during pregnancy?
It is generally recommended that you avoid activities where there is an increased chance of falling such as: skiing, snowboarding, surfing, horseback riding or other sports and activities with an increased risk of human contact (tackle football, basketball, soccer, hockey, etc)
Consult with your care provider before beginning any exercise routine. Generally speaking, activities that are low impact such as swimming, walking, yoga, pilates, stationary bike, stair machines and weight training are safe to do.
What kind of exercise can or can’t I do in the postpartum period?
Before beginning any postpartum exercise regimen, I recommend asking your care provider to assess you for diastasic recti, pelvic organ prolapse, incontinence and discuss other concerns/physical symptoms you may be having. If diagnosed with any of the above, a referral to a physical therapist is recommended for treatment.
Give yourself grace and time to fully heal. Your body just brought another human into the world. Focus on your inner strength with meditation and slowly work up to a more regular routine. Stay away from crunches and sharp, twisting motions like Russian twists and bicycle crunches at the beginning, as deeper core muscles need to regain strength before accessory muscles do.
Send me an email and we can discuss your specific needs. :-)