Between hiring your doula and the time you give birth, your doula will serve as an invaluable resource for questions and concerns that may arise through the remainder of your pregnancy.  I offer constant contact via phone and/or E-mail leading up to the day you give birth.  If you ever have any questions or concerns, don't be afraid to call me!  There are no silly questions, and that's what I'm here for!

During your labor and delivery, I will serve as a calming presence.  I will offer massage, couner-pressure, help establish good breathing patterns, and employ many other techniques to make your labor more comfortable.  I will also serve as your patient advocate, but I will not communicate with hospital staff for you.  I will give you information regarding procedures being suggested.  In the event of unwanted visitors, I can even run crowd control!  I will not take the place of your husband, or other partner.  I am there to enhance your partner's birth experience, as well as your own.  Remember that when you are in labor, my purpose is to mother the mother, not take anyone's place.  Also, please remember that I am there for emotional and physical support only.  I will not provide medical services, such as vaginal exams or breaking your bag of waters.  Of course, this is by no means a complete description of services offered.  This is just a general idea since every family's needs are different, and accordingly, doula services are tailored to meet individual needs.

After your baby is born, I will continue to stay with you until you are comfortable, usually for about one to two hours after the birth.  If you choose to breastfeed, I can assist you with latch and positioning, and/or put you in touch with the closest lactation consultant.  I will touch base some time within the next one to two days to make sure you are adjusting well, but if a problem arises before then, you may certainly call me!  After the birth, don't be afraid that our relationship has to end there!  I can always provide you with additional resources and if I can't answer your question, I know someone who can!  Make the most of your doula and the knowledge I have to offer!

My goal is to provide doula services for every woman who wants them+.  If you feel that we are a good fit, please do not let financial constrictions keep us from working together.  Arrangements can be made to see that you are supported during labor without breaking the bank.  With that said, my fee is $450.00.  There are discounts for military members and dependents*, homebirths, and repeat clients.  The typical payment schedule is broken down into 3 payments. $150 non-refundable retainer fee, due when you sign the service contract, securing me as your doula; $150 due on or before the 30th week of your pregnancy; $150 due on or before the 36th week mark, securing my on-call status for your birth.   You can pay by check, cash, or credit card via PayPal.  For all credit card transactions, payment must be done all at once, and there will be a 5% service fee added to your total fee.    +Due to the impending arrival of our third child, I will not be accepting clients with due dates from April 1, 2009 to July 1, 2009.  *Unfortunately, TriCare Prime nor Standard covers or reimburses for any doula fees.  If you carry a different insurance company, you may be able to file for reimbursement of some doula expenses, but I am not equipped to directly bill and/or accept insurance payments.