Frequently Asked Questions
WHere are you locaTed?
I live in Ukiah, California and offer in person doula services in Mendocino, Sonoma, and southern Humboldt Counties. I can also offer virtual services no matter where you live.
What kind of births do you Attend?
I attend any and all births- home, hospital or birth center, medicated or not, vaginal or cesarean. I truly believe that a birthers intuition knows what is safest and best for them and their baby. I also offer support for abortion, miscarriage, and stillbirth.
What exactly is a birth doula?
A birth Doula is a professional trained in childbirth who provides emotional, physical and educational support to the birther and any other family attending the birth. Doulas are not medical providers and do not perform any medical tasks such as fetal monitoring, checking vitals, or cervical checks.
What Are the benefits of a doula?
Studies have shown having a doula improves your chances of a vaginal delivery, lowers likelihood of using pain medication and results in shorter labors as well as babies being less likely to have complications.
Why do i need a doula if i HaVe a birth partner?
Your birth partner is an expert in you- your doula is an expert in birth. We’re a team! I am not there to replace them at all. I am supporting you both. I am there to help show them how they can help, give them breaks to eat and drink something, take a nap, whatever they need.
When will you join me in labor?
Whenever you want me to! Every birth is different but I am usually wanted to join in person around the onset of active labor. In early labor I will be in touch regularly on the phone to talk through a couple contractions and suggest a few things to help make early labor be as enjoyable as possible. Once I join in person, I will stay with you until an hour or two after the birth to help get everyone settled and help get breastfeeding initiated if wanted.
I am not sure a doula is in my budget. Do you offer Any financial aid?
Please do not hesitate to reach out! I believe everyone who wants a doula deserves one. We can work out a payment plan, discuss a trade, add doula services to your baby registry, lots of options.